Surgeons at Mercy Health - St. Elizabeth Boardman Hospital have reported reaching a milestone in robotic-assisted surgery. Dr. Marie Awad-Alexander and Dr. Derek Ornelas each have completed more than 1,000 robotic surgery cases.

Dr. Awad-Alexander, who began using robotic-assisted surgery in 2016, said the technology has improved her surgical practice. "The DaVinci robot has allowed me to perform most elective abdominal surgeries laparoscopically, leading to better surgical outcomes, less pain, and a quicker recovery for patients," she said.

The hospital uses the DaVinci Surgical System, which allows surgeons to perform procedures with enhanced precision, dexterity, range of motion and visualization. The system also uses smaller incisions, which can result in decreased blood loss, less pain, lower risk of infection and faster healing times.

Mercy Health said the surgical milestone reflects its investment in technology and its commitment to providing surgical care to area residents.