Our Lady of Lourdes Medical Center has performed the first single-incision laparoscopic colectomy using the revolutionary da Vinci Robotic Surgical System in southern New Jersey. This new technique is considered among the latest advancements in minimally invasive gastrointestinal surgery.

Behind the landmark surgery is Roy Sandau, DO, the only general surgeon in southern New Jersey who specializes in robot-assisted general and laparoscopic colorectal surgery. The procedure, which infuses cutting-edge surgical techniques with the da Vinci's advanced surgical technology, marks Lourdes' continued development of minimally invasive surgery with the goal of creating better surgical outcomes for patients.

"Using the da Vinci robot was significantly easier than performing the procedure using traditional techniques," says Dr. Sandau. "This technology eliminates the chance for collision of the instruments and articulates a smooth transition during operation in which multiple instruments can be used harmoniously."

Unlike traditional laparoscopic colectomy in which four or five small incisions are required to perform the operation, single-incision laparoscopic colectomy is made possible through a small incision made around the navel.

Dr. Sandau created an incision less than 6 centimeters long, through which he inserted the robot's miniature instruments and camera. Dr. Sandau then removed the patient's right colon affected by polyps.

Single incision-laparoscopic colectomy is considered to be safe and effective. It has gained popularity due to the many benefits associated with the minimally invasive technique, such as minimal scarring, less post-operative pain, reduced risk of infection, shorter hospital stays and quicker return to normal activity.

"The surgery was very successful," says Dr. Sandau. "The patient underwent surgery on Friday afternoon and was discharged on Monday morning. He is doing excellent with only minimal pain and should be able to return to normal activities within two weeks."

Dr. Sandau also offers minimally invasive procedures treating hernias, diseases of the gallbladder, stomach, pancreas, spleen, adrenal glands, thyroid and parathyroid.