Olean General Hospital (OGH) has successfully completed its first robotic-assisted surgery, marking a significant milestone for the facility. On January 20, 2024, the hospital performed a laparoscopic radical nephrectomy, a procedure involving the complete removal of a kidney to combat renal cell carcinoma, the most prevalent form of kidney cancer, as confirmed by the Kidney Cancer Association.
The surgery utilized the da Vinci Xi robotic surgical system, which OGH acquired through its affiliation with Kaleida Health. This advanced technology allows surgeons to perform complex procedures with enhanced precision and minimal invasiveness. The patient, a resident of Allegany, expressed satisfaction with the experience, stating, “Considering the procedure, the overall experience couldn’t have been better. My recovery was fast, and my pain levels were very manageable.”
Dr. Brian Dinerman, a urologist with Western New York Urology Associates and a clinical assistant professor at the Jacobs School of Medicine & Biomedical Sciences at the University at Buffalo, led the surgery. He emphasized the advantages of robotic-assisted surgery, including shorter hospital stays, reduced pain, and faster recovery times. “Bringing this technology to Olean allows patients to receive state-of-the-art surgical care close to home,” he noted.
The introduction of robotic surgery is significant for the local healthcare landscape, as it enables residents to access advanced medical procedures without the need to travel long distances. The patient echoed this sentiment, highlighting the importance of having such resources available in their community. “It’s going to save people from having to drive far outside the area for these types of surgeries,” they said.
Investment in Advanced Medical Technology
The da Vinci robotic system was previously located at Millard Fillmore Suburban Hospital in Amherst and was brought to OGH at a significant cost-saving, with the system originally valued at $2.3 million. OGH President Bradley Chapman remarked on the positive impact of this investment, stating, “You often hear negative commentary about rural healthcare, but we have some incredible resources here that many rural communities do not.”
Chapman also pointed out that the introduction of robotic surgery is part of a broader strategy to attract new surgeons and physicians to the region. “This is the technology they train on, and it helps ensure we continue providing advanced care in our region,” he added. Dr. Dinerman was among three doctors who participated in a panel discussion in December hosted by the Olean General Hospital Foundation, highlighting the potential benefits of the robotic system across various specialties, including general surgery and obstetrics.
Other regional hospitals, such as Jones Memorial Hospital in Wellsville and UPMC Chautauqua in Jamestown, have also adopted da Vinci systems, creating a network of facilities where surgeons can train and utilize their skills across multiple locations. This collaborative approach enhances the overall quality of care available in Western New York.
With the successful implementation of robotic-assisted surgery, OGH is poised to continue leading in healthcare innovation in the region. The procedure not only represents a technological advancement but also a commitment to improving patient care and outcomes for the local community.
