Ascension Saint Agnes performs first single-port robotic surgery of its kind in the region, and expands treatment options for colorectal, thoracic and urology conditions

Ascension Saint Agnes has become the first hospital in the Maryland-Delaware-Virginia region to successfully perform a single-port colon resection combined with transanal surgery, marking a major milestone in advanced, minimally invasive surgical care.

"Single-port robotic surgery is a minimally invasive surgical technique performed through a single small incision and represents a major advancement from traditional multi-port approaches and open surgery," said Rohit Gulati, MD, Chief Medical Officer, Ascension Saint Agnes. "Our Ascension Saint Agnes surgeons are using the single-port robotic surgery system to perform complex colorectal, thoracic and urology procedures through a single incision, offering benefits to patients such as less pain, shorter recovery times, and faster return to normal function compared to traditional or multi-port robotic approaches."

First Hospital in the Maryland-Delaware-Virginia Region to Successfully Perform a Single-port Colon Resection

This groundbreaking procedure was led by Irina Bernescu, MD, FACS, Colon and Rectal Surgeon, and the Ascension Saint Agnes surgical team using the hospital's newest and most advanced robotic surgical technology. Colorectal surgery involves the diagnosis and treatment of conditions affecting the large intestine, rectum and anus.

Unlike traditional or multi-port robotic surgery approaches that often require multiple incisions, the single-port approach allows surgeons to operate through one small opening. Transanal surgery allows surgeons to access certain areas through natural openings, further reducing the need for external incisions.

"It's exciting to have yet another way to ensure our patients receive the best care possible - especially here, where I've contributed to the advancement of robotic surgery for many years," said Dr. Bernescu. "This milestone confirms we're on the right track and reinforces our commitment to continuing to do what's best for our patients."

Dr. Bernescu emphasized Ascension Saint Agnes' commitment to both innovation and individualized care, while also stressing the importance of early detection. "The earlier you can identify something, the easier it is to treat," Bernescu said.

First Single-Port Robotic Surgery on a Patient with Lung Cancer

Eric Krause, MD, FACS, Section Chief of Thoracic Surgery at Ascension Saint Agnes Hospital, successfully completed the first robotic single-port wedge resection on a patient with lung cancer at Ascension Saint Agnes.

Ascension Saint Agnes joins a niche group of hospitals performing this procedure in the state of Maryland.

"With the addition of this single-port robotic system, Ascension Saint Agnes continues to set the standard for personalized and compassionate care - bringing leading-edge surgical options to patients in Baltimore and beyond," said Dr. Gulati.