Physician is First in Central Florida to Perform Robotic Lung Surgery

Florida Hospital Physician First in Central Florida to Perform Lung Surgery Using Robotic Technology

ORLANDO, Fla., April 30, 2010 - Leta Roberts is heading home only days after a mass was removed from her lung because of advanced robotic technology that is drastically improving the way thoracic (lung) surgery is performed. Florida Hospital cardiothoracic surgeon Dr. Joseph Boyer is the first physician in Central Florida to perform thoracic surgical procedures using robotic technology. Thoracic surgery, which refers to surgery on the lungs, esophagus or diaphragm, is typically performed when a potentially cancerous mass is identified on an X-ray, PET or CT scan.

Leta, a 55 year-old construction supervisor from Wauchula, Fla., had undergone a procedure many years ago to fix a collapsed lung and has a scar from her stomach to her back as a result of that procedure.

"When I initially found out that I would have to have another surgery on my lungs, I just assumed I would have the same procedure," said Leta. "I was so thrilled when I found out that Dr. Boyer would only have to make a few incisions and could use a robot to perform the surgery. I didn't have to have any of my ribs broken and am in so much less pain than with my previous procedure."

Dr. Boyer's use of the da Vinci® robot now allows him to make a few ½ to ¾ inch incisions which result in less scarring and reduced pain for the patient. The advanced robotic technology also allows the surgeon to see in high definition, 3-D which helps with precision when biopsying suspicious masses around delicate areas such as the lungs.

"Using the robot with thoracic procedures is extremely useful because we can be quicker, more effective and more efficient using the most minimally invasive method currently available," said Dr. Boyer. "We are able to accomplish the same results as the traditional procedure but are able to ensure that patients do not experience as much discomfort and are able to get back to their normal life as quickly as possible."

Not only is Leta going home feeling better but she also received the news that the mass on her lung was benign. According to Dr. Boyer, her prognosis is excellent and she will not require any further surgical procedures.

For more information, please contact Florida Hospital Media Relations at 407-303-8217.

www.floridahospitalnews.com

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