The da Vinci® S HD™ Surgical System

The da Vinci® S HD™ Surgical System provides patients an alternative to both traditional open surgery and conventional laparoscopy. Its design allows surgeons to perform even the most complex and delicate procedures through very small incisions with unmatched precision. As a result, you may be able to get back to life faster without the usual recovery following major surgery.
Brandywine Hospital’s investment in the da Vinci system for robotic-assisted surgery is a commitment to our patient’s health and well-being. Currently used at Brandywine for prostate, thoracic, cardiac and gynecological procedures, the da Vinci is expected to be used in future applications as the technology continues to advance.
What is robot-assisted surgery?
Robotic technology enables surgeons to perform even the most technically challenging procedures with greater control and dexterity. Through a few tiny, key-hole openings, surgeons can perform procedures while sparing healthy tissue and nerves.
The da Vinci is entirely controlled by the surgeon sitting at a console a few feet from the patient. The robots arms are very agile and capable of holding and manipulating fine surgical instruments, working as an extension of the surgeon's hands.
Although it is called a robot, the da Vinci cannot be programmed or make decisions on its own. Instead, it requires that every surgical maneuver be performed with direct input from the surgeon.
How does the da Vinci S HD system compare to other robotic systems?

The da Vinci S HD Surgical System is the first robotic surgical system with 3D (three dimensional) and HD (high definition) vision that offers twice the effective viewing resolution, providing improved clarity and detail of critical anatomy when compared with older models. The system, which includes a console, high-definition monitor, and several interactive robotic arms, is described by surgeons as easier to set up and use.
Is it safe?
The da Vinci system has been used successfully worldwide in tens of thousands of procedures to date.
Use of the da Vinci robotic surgical system has been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for over 25 minimally invasive procedures, including prostatectomy for treatment of prostate cancer, certain types of chest surgery, and certain abdominal surgeries including gallbladder removal.
Benefits of Robotic Surgery
For most patients, da Vinci Surgery offers numerous benefits over open surgery including:
- Less pain
- Less blood loss
- Less scarring
- Shorter recovery time
- Faster return to normal daily activities
- Better clinical outcomes, in many cases
As with any surgery, these benefits cannot be guaranteed, as surgery is patient- and procedure-specific.
da Vinci Prostatectomy

The da Vinci Surgical System is the most accurate and precise way to surgically treat prostate cancer while minimizing the side effects. The robotic technology provides the
surgeon with incredible ability to dissect the prostate while preserving the nerves and pelvic floor muscles in the surrounding area. The result is less blood loss, less pain, and faster recovery.
Surgeons at Brandywine Hospital Performing Robotic Surgery
Urology
Donald H. Andersen, MD
William G. Merriam, MD
Urology Center of Chester County
Brandywine Professional Building
213 Reeceville Road, Suite 21
Coatesville, PA 19320
610-383-7663
Cardiothoracic
Robert K. Wenger, MD
Arthur T. Martella, MD
Penn Cardiac Care @ Brandywine
213 Reeceville Road, Suite 33
Coatesville, PA 19320
610-383-8434
Gynecology
George K. Henry, MD
The Woman’s Center OB/GYN
213 Reeceville Road, Suite 20
Coatesville, PA 19320
610-383-9400