John Cromwell, M.D., medical director of colorectal surgery at Methodist University Hospital, and chief of colon and rectal surgery at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center, performed the first robotic colorectal surgery in the Southeastern part of the country. The Minimally Invasive Surgery Center at Methodist University Hospital is home to some of the most innovative surgical procedures and techniques available anywhere in the United States.

“We are extremely fortunate to be on the forefront of robotic surgery here at Methodist University Hospital,” said Dr. Cromwell. “It allows us to provide exceptional care for our patients.”

Sheila Hall was the first patient in Tennessee to have robotic colorectal surgery. Her recovery has been good, she’s back to her normal routine, the incisions are minimal, and best of all, no pain.

“It’s really great to know this technology is available in Memphis,” said Hall.

Dr. Cromwell says currently robotic surgical equipment is best suited for operating on one particular location on the body which is ideal for colon surgery because colon surgery focuses on either the left or right side of the colon or part of the rectum inside the pelvis. Robotic colorectal surgery can help treat colon polyps, colon cancer, or diverticular diseases including divertulosis and diverticulitis, inflammation of the colon.

“I explain to my patients that robotic surgery is really an extension of laparoscopic surgery and that it allows me to control the instruments a lot more precisely as well as improving visualization of the area I am operating on,” said Dr. Cromwell. “When I am sitting at the robotic console, my view there is much, much clearer than if I am doing another type of minimally invasive surgery.”

Other benefits of robotic surgery include:

• Shorter hospital stay
• Less blood loss
• Less pain
• Rapid return to activities

“When Dr. Cromwell said less pain. I said ‘sign me up for robotic surgery,’” said Hall. “I was convinced that was the way to go.”

Learn more about robotic surgery.