In 2013 Yampa Valley Medical Center received a state-of-the-art, da Vinci, surgical robot via an anonymous donation valued at more than $1,000,000. After engaging in a year-long journey of extensive training, proctoring and hands-on learning, Dr. Ahlmeyer became certified on the da Vinci system in 2014 and has now earned the title “high-volume” robotic surgeon. She, along with an operating-room team also extensively trained in robotics, continue to be amazed at patient outcomes and recovery times.
Recently published data (see link to article below) show positive surgical outcomes and support the use of robotic surgery over conventional surgical methods in many benign, gynecologic cases. Published results of surgical outcomes support robotics for the following:
- Smaller incisions and scars
- Fewer complications
- Shorter hospital stays
- Faster recovery time
- Less bleeding and pain
- Less risk of infection
- No need for a surgical assistant, a cost saving measure.
Dr. Ahlmeyer’s current commitment, advanced training and focus on gynecologic surgery has resulted in collaborative efforts with local urologists. This allows combined gynecologic and urological procedures to be done locally.
For a background on surgical history and the natural development of robotics, enjoy the following link:
TED: Surgery’s past, present and robotic future
A study of outcomes from hysterectomies performed using robotic surgical systems compared to hysterectomies done using conventional abdominal, vaginal and laparoscopic tools is included in the link below (International Journal of Gynecology & Obstetrics):
To visit the da Vinci website for general information regarding the da Vinci robotic system, please click on the below link: