Northwest Hospital surgeon performs first robotic hand surgery in America

Stacey Berner, M.D., medical director of the Hand Center at Northwest Hospital in Randallstown, MD, has become the first surgeon in America to perform a revolutionary new robotic hand surgery.

Berner utilized the Da Vinci Surgical System to perform a ultra precise surgery. This system is an alternative to traditional open surgery or conventional laparoscopy surgery. The system allows the surgeon to use high magnification and ultra precise movements that eliminate human hand tremors. Berner operated with two robotic arms, one with each hand and a third using a foot pedal. The Da Vinci also allows the surgeon to view the entire operation with 3D imaging.

This new method will allow surgeons to access smaller structures and improve patient outcomes by having more precise surgeries around nerves. Patients may also experience less blood lose, less pain and shorter recovery times. The Da Vinci Surgical System has been used for other procedures such as gynecologic and prostate conditions, but has never been employed for hand surgery before.

"The new procedure allows the surgeon to perform ultra precise gestures of movement and takes away minor human hand tremors," said Dr. Berner. "The new approach of using a Da Vinci Surgical System significantly increases access to hard to reach structures and potentially offers better results for patients."