06/15/2024
Edgar Johnson recently underwent the second-ever Robotic Whipple procedure at CHI Memorial. Performing a Whipple procedure robotically offers several significant advantages over traditional open surgery. Robotic technology allows for greater precision, flexibility, and control during the operation. Surgeons can make smaller, more precise incisions, which reduces the overall trauma to the patient’s body. This minimally invasive approach typically results in less blood loss, reduced postoperative pain, and a quicker recovery time compared to open surgery.
“The medicine took care of the pain. I don’t want to say it was textbook perfect, but it was textbook perfect. I don’t have any regrets, I don’t have any negatives to say,” said Johnson of his surgery.
His surgeons were Dr. Justin Wilkes and Dr. Rishabh Shah. They used the da Vinci® Xi robotic surgical system, the most advanced robotic-assisted surgical technology. At CHI Memorial, our surgeons ensure that patients and families understand the pros and cons of every aspect of surgery.
“One thing that helped ease us as a family. Dr. Wilkes laid out plainly to us the good and bad of the surgery, and he left no questions unanswered to us. That is one thing that helped us as a family: that we knew what to expect,” said Joyce Johnson, Johnson’s wife.
This local availability of advanced surgical care can lead to better overall patient experiences, as patients can recover in familiar surroundings with the support of family and friends.
Johnson said, “There was no hesitation on my part to put my life in his hands.”
