Our approach to patient care
We recognize that surgery can be a stressful event for many patients. Our goal is to make the process as stress-free as possible - from learning about hernias all the way past recovery. Starting from the time you decide to schedule your initial appointment, it is important to us that you can be seen by a provider in a timely fashion and that you can schedule surgery when it works for your schedule. We take pride in ensuring that on the day of your surgery you feel comfortable from the moment you enter the hospital until the time you leave and that post-operatively you feel supported throughout your recovery. We are always available to answer questions and help you through all steps of the surgical process.
Why robotic hernia surgery
There are multiple approaches to any problem and hernia repairs are no different. There are three main techniques used to repair hernias: open surgery, laparoscopic surgery, and robotic surgery. Open, or traditional hernia surgery, has been performed the longest and involves suturing the hernia closed and, oftentimes, placement of a reinforcing mesh. However, one of the downsides of open surgery, is that it requires a larger incision, can be more painful, and requires a longer recovery. Laparoscopic, or minimally invasive hernia surgery, uses a camera and smaller incisions to help improve pain and recovery time. Suturing, or sewing the hernia closed, is very difficult with the laparoscopic approach so oftentimes the hernia is not closed but rather just reinforced with a piece of mesh.
Robotic hernia surgery combines the advantages of traditional open surgery and minimally invasive laparoscopic surgery. The technology of the robot enables Dr. Perez to suture the hernia closed, place the mesh between the layers of the abdominal wall, and utilize all of the tried and true techniques of open hernia surgery. At the same time, since the surgery is done through small incisions, the robot provides decrease pain and a faster recovery for hernia patients. Many of our surgeries can be done without narcotics/opioid pain medicines and patients can get back to their normal activities a day or two after surgery.
Robotic surgery can sound intimidating, but it’s important to remember that the “robot” is simply a tool I use in the operating room, just like a scalpel or a forceps, to help deliver the best care I can to my patients. Technology has improved so much of our lives and medicine is no different. But there has to balance between experience and the adoption of new technology. My practice has evolved to the point where I perform all of my surgeries on the robot since I believe it’s better for my patients. My team and I have successfully completed more than 2,000 robotic surgeries with many more to come.
