Inside VCU Health's latest innovations in robotic assisted surgery

Leigh Farmer explores VCU Health's pioneering role in robotic surgery and its expansion across multiple facilities with insights from Dr. Vigneshwar Kasirajan.

VCU Health has emerged as a leader in robotic surgery innovation, participating since the 1990s with NASA funding and now operating robotic surgical suites across four locations. The health system recently achieved groundbreaking milestones, including performing the nation's first fully robotic living donor liver transplant. Their strategic expansion brings advanced minimally invasive procedures closer to patients in rural communities while maintaining excellence in complex surgeries.

• Robotic surgery offers patients faster recovery, less pain, and same-day discharge possibilities through smaller incisions and enhanced precision
• VCU Health operates robotic programs across urology, gynecology, oncology, thoracic surgery, and transplant services at multiple facilities
• The health system prioritizes training future medical professionals through simulator technology and partnerships with Intuitive Surgical
• Expansion to Short Pump and Community Memorial Hospital increases access for patients in suburban and rural areas