For the past few weeks, surgeons at Saint Agnes Medical Center have been using the newest version of the breakthrough surgical system allowing less invasive surgeries and faster recovery times. And doctors say they already see the difference.

Saint Agnes officials showed off the new Da Vinci 5 Robotic Surgical System to the public on Thursday.

The hospital has had previous versions of the robot for more than a decade. The newest release, cleared by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in March 2024, allows for even greater control and precision, according to the company.

“It helps us perform minimally invasive surgery, complex surgeries better compared to traditional open surgeries,” said Dr. Russell Martin, chief of surgery for Saint Agnes. “Patients statistically have less pain, faster recoveries, and better outcomes — less complications.”

Provides Better Feedback to Surgeons

Not technically a robot, the device allows surgeons to operate with smaller incisions. Doctors pilot the system from a platform in the same room as the patient. Bedside staff help change out tools and care for the patient.

Operating from the platform means surgeons don’t have to hover over patients for potentially long surgeries.

The new Da Vinci also gives better feedback to surgeons than previous versions, said Skye Applebee, director of surgical services at St. Agnes. As doctors operate the machine, it can simulate the sensation of touch, letting them know how much pressure they are applying to their patients.

This allows them to be more sensitive, Applebee said.

Dr. Martin said that many patients leave a day after surgery. He added that he has not prescribed narcotics to surgery patients since 2018.

“Going home without narcotics? It’s just better,” Martin said.