MaineGeneral Upgrades Robot-Assisted Surgical System
WATERVILLE, Maine – MaineGeneral is pleased to announce the upgrade of the robot-assisted surgical system at the Thayer Center for Health. This system ensures all residents in the Greater Kennebec Valley have access to minimally invasive surgical options close to home.
Robot-assisted surgical systems are used to perform a range of elective and emergent general surgery procedures, surgical oncology procedures as well as specialty surgical procedures including bariatrics, thoracic, urologic, vascular and women’s health. MaineGeneral was able to upgrade to the latest robot thanks to Congressionally Directed Spending funds that were awarded in 2023 and supported by Senator Susan Collins and Senator Angus King.
“The precision and enhanced visualization offered with the upgrade allows us to perform surgeries with greater accuracy, resulting in less pain and faster recovery for our patients, which ultimately is the goal,” said Karen Bossie, DO of MaineGeneral Obstetrics & Gynecology.
“The Thayer robot upgrade has been seamless. Staff and surgeons enjoy the efficiencies the new model brings, and the standardization is helpful for the staff as well,” said Roxanne Perrault, Administrative Director of Surgical Services.
Gabriel Belanger, MD of MaineGeneral Urology noted the benefits of robotic surgery: “It is ergonomically better, making longer surgeries less tiring. The new robot will benefit day surgery patients here at Thayer, as well as patients at the Alfond Center for Health by opening up more access to surgery.”
MaineGeneral is one of three medical centers in Maine that has an advanced robotics system. Robotic surgery is minimally invasive and offers surgeons improved views and better dexterity when using the instruments. Benefits for patients include less blood loss and tissue damage, less pain after surgery, shorter hospital stays and faster recovery time. Robotic surgery is available at the Alfond Center for Health in Augusta and the Thayer Center for Health in Waterville.
For more information, please visit www.mainegeneral.org/medical-services/surgery/robotic-surgery/, or call 207-621-4680.
