Orthopedic Services / Cardiac Services

Procedure and Patient Determine Surgical Approach

When it comes to surgery, most people want the least intrusive, safest option that will help them return to their life as quickly as possible, with the fewest complications or scarring. Minimally invasive surgery often meets these patient requirements. Sometimes, depending on the patient and the type of procedure, surgeons can perform minimally invasive surgeries using the da Vinci robotic surgical system.

While there are minimally invasive options for a variety of surgical procedures, most surgeons agree that the safety and ability to repair the problem are the most important things to consider.

“With hip and knee replacements, the size of the incision is not as important as the safety of the surgery and ensuring the components are aligned correctly,” explains Edward Humbert, D.O., orthopedic surgeon. “It is important that the patient researches the doctor and the number of surgeries performed, which directly correlates with better outcomes and fewer complications. I make sure to use the smallest incision possible to do the surgery safely and properly—not only because it’s what the patient wants, but because it’s also good for the patient.”

The benefits of smaller incisions and minimally invasive surgeries include less bleeding, less chance of infection, less pain or discomfort and faster recovery time.

“My goal is to perform the surgery in the safest way, while also minimizing the patient’s discomfort,” says Brian Hummel, M.D., cardiothoracic surgeon. “How I perform the surgery—whether using the da Vinci robot or through a minimally invasive or open approach—depends on the anatomy of the patient.”

In addition to orthopedic and cardiac surgeries, other fields—including urology, gynecology and gastroenterology—use minimally invasive surgical approaches. At Lee Memorial Health System, cardiac, gynecologic, urologic, and some general surgeries are performed using the da Vinci robot.

With any surgery, it is important to discuss all options, and their risks and benefits with the surgeon prior to the operation to ensure the best approach and outcome.

Edward T. Humbert, D.O.
Joint Implant Surgeons of Florida
Lee Memorial Hospital Medical Office Center
2776 Cleveland Ave., Suite 709
Fort Myers, FL 33901
239-337-2003

Brian W. Hummel, M.D.
Gulfcoast Cardiothoracic & Vascular Surgeons
8010 Summerlin Lakes Drive, Suite 100
Fort Myers, FL 33907
239-939-1767