UP Health System – Portage Celebrates 500th Robotic-Assisted Surgery

UP Health System – Portage is celebrating a major milestone in advancing surgical care close to home, recently completing its 500th robotic-assisted surgical procedure. The achievement reflects the hospital's continued commitment to bringing advanced technology and specialized care to patients across the Copper Country.

Since introducing its da Vinci robotic surgical system through a more than $2 million investment from Lifepoint Health, UP Health System – Portage has expanded the range of minimally invasive procedures available locally. What began with gynecologic and general surgery procedures has grown to include robotic-assisted laparoscopic bowel resections, giving patients access to advanced surgical techniques without having to leave the region.

Robotic-assisted surgery allows surgeons to perform complex procedures through small incisions with enhanced precision and control. For patients, that often means less postoperative pain, shorter hospital stays, faster recovery times and a reduced risk of complications.

"Reaching 500 robotic-assisted surgeries is an incredible accomplishment and speaks to the dedication of our surgeons, operating room teams and support staff," said Donna McMullen, director of perioperative services at UP Health System – Portage. "More importantly, it reflects the impact this technology has had on our patients. Since reaching our first milestones, we've expanded into robotic-assisted laparoscopic bowel resections, which can significantly improve recovery for patients facing colorectal procedures. We also routinely perform hysterectomies, appendectomies and many hernia repairs robotically, allowing more patients to benefit from less pain, shorter hospital stays and a quicker return to their daily lives."

The da Vinci robotic system translates a surgeon's hand movements into precise movements of tiny instruments inside the body while providing a magnified, high-definition, three-dimensional view of the surgical site. The surgeon remains in complete control of the system throughout the procedure.

Since technology was introduced, demand for robotic-assisted surgery has continued to grow as patients and providers recognize the benefits of minimally invasive care. The program's expansion has enabled more residents of the Copper Country to receive advanced surgical treatment close to home.

"This milestone represents far more than a number," said Ryan Heinonen, CEO of UP Health System – Portage. "Each of these 500 procedures represents a patient who had access to state-of-the-art surgical care without traveling long distances from family and support systems. We invested in robotic surgery because we believe our community deserves access to the same innovative health care options available in larger markets. Seeing the program grow and positively impact so many lives reinforces that commitment."

The robotic surgery program is part of UP Health System – Portage's broader strategy to enhance quality, safety and the patient experience through continued investment in advanced technology and clinical excellence.

The robotic surgery program is part of UP Health System – Portage's broader strategy to enhance quality, safety and the patient experience through continued investment in advanced technology and clinical excellence.

To learn more about surgical services at UP Health System, visit Surgical Services | Marquette, Hancock & Ishpeming, MI