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always try to start as minimally invasively as possible. We also make sure patients know we will ultimately choose the methods of surgery that are best for their particular diseases. It���s important to let patients know that the robot is one tool that is available, but we are looking for the surgical methods that will provide the best outcomes. That may require a change in approach. Q Reduced recovery time and minimized bleeding are often championed as benefits of robot-assisted surgeries. How has the technology benefited you? Hausmann: This technology allows Via Christi Hospitals in Wichita to better support our physicians in the treatment of their patients. Dr. Grizzell: This technology, when used with appropriately selected patients, has allowed us to reduce patient discomfort while maintaining excellent surgical outcomes. In addition, it has brought new growth to thoracic surgery in general and provides opportunities for a multidisciplinary team approach to excel. Q As robotics becomes more widely used, how is training changing for new and experienced surgeons? Hausmann: At Via Christi, we want to support talented physicians who have adopted these new technologies. D r. G rizzell: One significant benefit to this technology is the use of simulators. Residents have access to simulators, and we can supplement resident education with them. However, the learning curve is steeper with this technology. Because robot-assisted surgery is so new, it will take a generation before we see the real effects the technology has had on resident education. The true question is how long it will be until traditional approaches become the minority of resident education ��� which they already have in some fields. Q What is robotics��� contribution to patient satisfaction, safety and outcomes? Hausmann: Patients who have come to trust Via Christi have expressed their appreciation for our comprehensive technological capabilities that support the practice of our physicians. Dr. Grizzell: Again, in the appropriately selected patient, this method of surgery offers a less invasive approach with quicker recovery times while still achieving the same excellent surgical outcome. This correlates to getting patients back to their normal lifestyles, which reduces collateral illnesses and complications. To l e a r n m o r e a b o u t t h e use of robot-assisted surger y i n th o r a c i c c a s e s o r g e n e r a l robot-assisted surgery, please contact Barbara Beugelsdyk, R.N., Assistant Chief Nursing Officer for Via Christi Hospitals in Wichita, at (316) 573- 8560 or Barbara. beugelsdyk@viachristi.org. You may also visit the FAQ page about the da Vinci Surgical System at www.via-christi.org/da-vinci-faq. ��� AbO ut S H Er ry HAuS MAn n sherry hausmann GraduaTed with a Bachelor of Science degree in nursing from Southern Illinois University and went on to receive her Master of Business Administration degree from Maryville University in St. Louis. AbO ut D r . G rIz zELL breTT e. GrIzzeLL, m.d. , practices surgery with Wichita Surgical Specialists. He earned his medical degree at the University of Kansas and completed a fellowship in cardiothoracic surgery at Washington University in St. Louis. mdnews.com ��� md news Greater Kansas | 17