Oroville, CA - Ten students from Ishi Middle School in Oroville visited an Oroville Hospital operating room for a demonstration of the da Vinci Robotic Surgery System by surgeon Dr. Ravi Nagubandi. The students then had a chance to try their hand at robotic surgery using a simulation program.
The da Vinci system allows the surgeon to use a magnified, three-dimensional view and small, robotic instruments to enhance the surgeon’s ability to perform complex procedures through small incisions. The patient benefits by experiencing reduced pain, having a lower chance of infection, and a quicker recovery time.
Operating Room Manager Robyn North R.N., who organized the visit, had already visited the student’s classroom to prep the students for their visit and answer questions. Students had a chance to ask questions about how the robot works, how surgeons trained to operate the da Vinci system, and the kinds of surgeries it can perform. North explained that the da Vinci system is a combination of electrical and mechanical engineering, computer science, and a highly skilled surgeon and staff.
Working with Diane Kindred, a Registered Nurse First Assistant specially trained to assist with the da Vinci system, Dr. Nagubandi first peeled a grape using the robotic arms, and then “sutured” a sponge. Afterwards, each student took a turn performing a simulated surgery using the robot.
Dr. Nagubandi said that when he was in high school and trying to decide what to study in college, his brother asked him, “Why don’t you become a doctor?” So Dr. Nagubandi said to the assembled students, “Why don’t you become a doctor?”
Two teachers from Ishi Middle School, Jackie Musselman and Amy Brooks, came up with the idea to visit Oroville Hospital as a way to show the intersection of technology and medicine. “We wanted to show them that some of that great, state-of-the-art technology is right here in Oroville,” said Musselman.