Munson Healthcare (MHC) Charlevoix Hospital today proudly announced the arrival of the state-of-the-art Da Vinci XI Surgical System, an advancement in minimally-invasive surgery. Expansion of robotic surgery and outpatient access is part of Munson Healthcare’s Regional Care Transformation Plan and a significant leap forward in surgical capabilities, enhancing precision and patient outcomes across a range of specialties, including Obstetrics and Gynecology (OBGYN), Urology, and General Surgery.
Jared Davis, DO, MHC Charlevoix Hospital Robotics Champion and urologist at Munson Healthcare Harbor Springs Urology was a key player in bringing the Da Vinci XI Surgical System to Charlevoix. “As a urologist, robotics is the gold standard of surgery and an area I am not just medically trained in but have a passion for,” Dr Davis said. “Expanding access to robotics will provide the Northern Michigan community with a higher level of surgical care so they don’t have to travel south to get the care they need. They can receive it right here in Charlevoix.”
The first surgery using this new technology was performed by general surgeon Emily McKerchie, DO, on Monday, November 14. “Being the first surgeon at Charlevoix Hospital to perform a procedure with the Da Vinci XI Surgical System was a groundbreaking experience,” said Dr. McKerchie. “The system's advanced capabilities allowed me to navigate with unparalleled precision, opening new frontiers in surgical possibilities. It's a testament to our community commitment across Northern Michigan.”
The Da Vinci XI Surgical System combines advanced robotics, 3D high-definition visualization, and intuitive instrument control, providing skilled medical professionals with unprecedented precision and dexterity during surgical procedures. MHC Charlevoix Hospital is committed to delivering the highest standard of care to our community, and the addition of the Da Vinci XI further solidifies our dedication to cutting-edge medical advancements.
Key Features of the Da Vinci XI Surgical System:
- Enhanced Precision: The system's robotic arms offer a greater range of motion than the human hand, allowing surgeons to perform intricate procedures with unparalleled precision.
- 3D High-Definition Visualization: Surgeons benefit from a magnified, crystal-clear view of the surgical site.
- Minimally Invasive: The Da Vinci XI's minimally invasive approach results in smaller incisions, reduced scarring, faster recovery times for patients, and decreased perioperative pain.
- Versatility Across Specialties: The system is tailored to a variety of surgical disciplines, with a particular focus on OBGYN, Urology, and General Surgery, expanding the range of procedures that can be performed with this cutting-edge technology.
In addition to Dr. McKerchie, general surgeon Barrett Kielhorn, DO, of Munson Healthcare Charlevoix Surgeons is also using the Da Vinci XI Surgical System. “This has revolutionized the field of general surgery. Its cutting-edge technology provides me an enhanced vision and control during procedures, which translates to improved patient outcomes,” Dr. Kielhorn said.
Obstetrics and gynecology physician, Caitlyn Monks, DO, of Munson Healthcare Charlevoix Women’s Health also said, “The Da Vinci XI Surgical System will transform the landscape of minimally-invasive gynecologic surgery. Its precision and versatility empower me to provide the highest standard of care, ensuring better outcomes and quicker recoveries for my patients."
Drs. Davis, Kielhorn, McKerchie, and Monks are all accepting new patients. Talk to your primary care provider regarding the Da Vinci XI Surgical System or call Munson Healthcare at 231-935-5000.
Munson Healthcare Charlevoix Hospital invites the community to celebrate this milestone in healthcare and looks forward to continuing to provide exceptional surgical care with the Da Vinci XI Surgical System.