The expansion brings minimally invasive technology to more specialties and younger patients at Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital Stanford.
Stanford Medicine Children’s Health has expanded its robotic surgery program at Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital Stanford, introducing advanced minimally invasive capabilities for pediatric patients. The program aims to provide surgical precision and gentler procedures for children.
The technology is currently used in pediatric urology, gynecology, and bariatric surgery. According to the organization, the approach focuses on smaller incisions, reduced tissue strain, and faster recovery times.
“The Robotic Surgery Program exemplifies our dedication to innovation in pediatric care and is one of the most experienced centers in the country,” says Karthik Balakrishnan, MD, Susan B. Ford surgeon-in-chief and a pediatric otolaryngologist at Stanford Children’s, in a release. “By leveraging advanced robotic technology, we will enhance surgical precision, minimize recovery time, and improve outcomes for our young patients. It truly transforms the surgical experience for children, giving them the best chance for swift and complete recovery.”
Erin Grantham, MD, a pediatric urologist at Stanford Medicine Children’s Health specializing in robotic-assisted surgeries, uses the technology for procedures correcting ureter, bladder, and kidney flow anomalies. The system enables surgeons to operate on patients as young as 4 months old.
“With the integration of robotic surgery, we can now perform these intricate procedures on patients as young as 4 months old. The robotic technology allows us to access the entire pelvis and abdomen so we can make their little bodies work the way that bodies work best,” says Grantham in a release.
In addition to clinical use, Grantham is establishing a training program for surgeons. The robotic system allows residents and fellows to view surgical techniques in real time while operating in tandem with experienced surgeons.
The robotic surgery program is scheduled to roll out additional procedures this year. Stanford Medicine’s Janey Pratt, MD, a pediatric surgeon, is preparing to offer robotic sleeve gastrostomies and cholecystectomies later this summer.
“The robotic platform means I can operate with greater precision, improved visualization, and less disruption to the patient’s body,” says Pratt in a release. “Because we are moving the instruments with the robot rather than pushing on the patient, the approach can be gentler and support an easier recovery.”
Stanford Medicine Children’s Health is also working with the US Food and Drug Administration to research and plan the expansion of the program into other specialties, including ear, nose, and throat surgeries.
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