Clinch Valley Health announced today the hospital has launched its robotic surgery program with the arrival of a new surgical robot. Its first total knee replacement with robotic technology was performed on Thursday, April 1 by board-certified orthopedic surgeon Walid Azzo, M.D., PhD, FAAOS.  The new, innovative technology assists orthopedic surgeons in specific surgical procedures for total knee replacements. Clinch Valley Health is the first hospital in southwest Virginia to offer ROSA robotic technology options for orthopedic patients.

Robotic surgery, or robotic-assisted surgery – allows surgeons the ability to perform complex procedures with added precision, flexibility and precise placement of prosthetic joints. Patients may benefit from less pain, faster recovery times, fewer complications and shorter hospital stays.

“We are proud to be the first hospital in our region to this innovative robotic technology to help enhance health outcomes for our patients,” said Peter Mulkey, CEO of Clinch Valley Health. “Robotic surgery is one of the many ways we are fulfilling our mission of Making Communities Healthier and providing the highest quality care close to home for those we serve.”

ROSA Knee is a robotically-assisted surgical system designed to help perform total knee replacement surgery with unmatched precision.  It includes features to assist with bone resections and assessing the state of soft tissues in order to facilitate implant positioning intraoperatively. Data provided by ROSA Knee assists with complex decision-making and enables surgeons to use computer and software technology to control and move surgical instruments, allowing for greater precision and flexibility during procedures.      

“Robotic technology is transforming the way we perform surgeries at Clinch Valley Health,” said Dr. Azzo, a robotically-trained surgeon at Clinch Valley Health. “Through this new, advanced tool, we are able to personalize surgery in a more precise way for each patient.”

Orthopedic surgeon Chauncey Santos, M.D. echoes excitement for the new technology and emphasizes the benefit to patients:

“For some patients, this can mean less soft-tissue damage; for others, greater bone preservation. It is an exciting time to be able to offer this transformative technology for our patients. Clinch Valley Health is raising the bar in robotic services in the region.”

Frequently cited clinical benefits associated with robot-assisted surgeries include less pain, optimal joint function, reduction in length of hospital stay, improved knee flexion and less soft-tissue damage when compared to manual techniques.

While many patients are a candidate for robotic surgery, Dr. Azzo and Dr. Santos remind patients to consult with their doctors about the best surgical method for their individual needs.

To learn more about Clinch Valley Health’s surgical services program and technology, please visit ClinchValleyHealth.com to find a robotically trained surgeon, call our Physician Referral Line at 800.424.DOCS.