Another health system expands use of robotic surgery for women

VCU Health in Richmond, Virginia, is the latest system to expand use of robotic-assisted surgery in women’s health through its rural outreach site VCU Health Community Memorial Hospital (CMH). The outreach — designed to reach women in previously underserved regions — offers minimally invasive, more precise options for procedures including hysterectomy, myomectomy and prolapse repair, typically allowing same-day or next-day discharge. The technology offers smaller incisions, less pain and quicker recovery and has been increasingly used by health systems across the country in recent years. “We wanted patients to have options closer to where they live and work,” said CMH Dr. Kwadwo Baryeh, an OB-GYN. “For a mother, a daughter, a caregiver, that means less time off work and away from their families.”