da Vinci® Robotic-Assisted Surgery

Pacific Medical Centers is pleased to offer da Vinci® robotic surgery to patients in our Urology department. With this minimally invasive technology, patients can get back to their lives quickly—in days rather than weeks. And that means a faster return to work, school, hobbies and other activities.

Unlike open surgery, a procedure using the da Vinci system requires only very small incisions, so scars are minimized. Because the surgery is less invasive, patients report better pain control. They also experience a lower risk of infection, minimized blood loss, a reduced threat to nearby nerves and organs, and fewer postoperative complications.

PacMed uses the da Vinci robotic surgical system. This sophisticated system uses a high-definition, 3-D camera. This gives the surgeon a magnified, high-resolution 3-D image.

During surgery, the surgeon’s hands do not enter the patient. Instead, the surgeon sits several feet away at a specialized console and maneuvers tools remotely. The surgeon creates several “keyhole” incisions, through which the camera and tools are inserted. The system cannot move or make decisions on its own; the surgeon is in charge of every action.

What are the benefits of robotic surgery?

Consultations and Locations

Your surgeon and professional staff will discuss your procedure with you and answer your questions. Surgeries are conducted by PacMed providers at either Virginia Mason Medical Center or Swedish Medical Center.

General Surgery/Colon, Rectal and Anal Surgery:

You can read more about General Surgery and Colon, Rectal and Anal Surgery on their webpages. PacMed surgeries using the da Vinci robotic surgical system include:

• Inguinal hernia
• Incisional hernia
• Rectopexy
• Colectomy

Urology

Urology consultations are offered at our First Hill, Canyon Park and Renton clinics. You can read more at the Urology web page. PacMed urological surgeries using the da Vinci robotic surgical system include:

• Kidney, prostate and bladder cancers
• Cystectomy (removal of all or some of bladder)
• Nephrectomy (removal of the kidney)
• Partial nephrectomy
• Prostatectomy
• Pyeloplasty (repair of kidney obstruction)

All of our surgeons are board certified or board eligible in their specialty and surgical subspecialty. In addition, all have specialized training in da Vinci robotic surgery. Dr. Pick completed a two-year fellowship in Endourology, Laparoscopy and da Vinci Robotic Surgery.