Montefiore Einstein Center for Cancer Care offers robotic surgery, as a minimally invasive and cutting-edge option for neurological, urological, gynecological, gastrointestinal, cardiothoracic and general surgical procedures.
Montefiore's surgeons have extensive experience in robotic surgery and use the latest model of the da Vinci® Surgical System. The high-resolution, three-dimensional stereo viewer allows the surgeon to dissect nerves accurately with minimal trauma and permits greater nerve preservation during the operation.
To perform a procedure using the da Vinci® Surgical System, the surgeon works with the console's master controls to maneuver the four robotic arms, which securely hold the patented Endowrist® instruments and high-magnification endoscopic camera. Endowrist® exceeds the natural range of motion of the human hand and refines the surgeon's hand movements.
Although commonly referred to as robotic surgery, the da Vinci® Surgical System is more of a computer-enhanced surgical tool than an actual robot. Nothing is programmed into the robot; instead, all surgeries are done in real time — the tools move only as the surgeon's hands move. The operating surgeon is stationed at a console several feet away from the patient, and a second surgeon remains at the patient's bedside throughout the procedure. This second surgeon changes instruments on the robot and is available to take over for the robot should the need arise.
For the patient, a robotic procedure can offer all the potential benefits of a minimally invasive procedure, including:
For cases that demand more rigorous intervention, such as malignancies of the prostate, Montefiore offers both radical prostatectomy and state-of-the-art robotic prostate surgery. A robotic-assisted procedure can also provide all the potential advantages of a minimally invasive procedure, including the ability to preserve erectile function and urinary continence after prostate surgery.
Robotic thoracic surgery at Montefiore is reducing the impact of traditional surgery and is returning patients to their active lives more quickly. Robotic surgical techniques are also allowing patients who otherwise have no other options, the chance at surgical intervention, the hope of improved symptoms and a prolonged life expectancy.
Our accomplished staff work as a team from diagnosis and treatment to rehabilitation. Employing a multidisciplinary approach, our medical experts from various disciplines collaborate to provide patients with the most effective, individualized treatment plan possible, while supporting them throughout their fight with cancer.
Our surgical staff combines expertise from a number of important specialties, including:
Montefiore has a strong reputation for successfully managing many complex surgeries to treat cancer, and we have the advanced technology and experienced physicians to perform many surgeries unavailable at other hospitals.
Surgeons at Montefiore understand that not all patients who might benefit from robotic surgery will feel comfortable with new advances. The Montefiore team will also discuss other options, including minimally invasive laparoscopic or traditional open surgery at the patient's request.
The Montefiore Einstein Center for Cancer Care and its partner, Albert Einstein Cancer Center, a National Cancer Institute-designated cancer center, are recognized for their creative and innovative approach to research. Research in robotic surgery is conducted in department labs at Albert Einstein College of Medicine.
Our staff consists of physicians and research scientists from many different backgrounds who bring their individual expertise to the research.
The Division of Translational Research in the Department of Oncology focuses on translating laboratory findings into practical applications that will help our patients fight cancer.
We believe very strongly in using the power of research to improve technologies, therapies and, ultimately, outcomes for our patients, so they may live longer, healthier lives.