Community joins AdventHealth New Smyrna Beach in celebrating recent enhancements to oncology and surgical robotics programs

Community members and health academy students from New Smyrna Beach High School joined together to celebrate AdventHealth New Smyrna Beach’s commitment to progressive technologies. In January, AdventHealth New Smyrna Beach brought the first surgical robot to the community with the addition of the da Vinci Xi® minimally invasive surgical system.

Throughout this special day, students, hospital team members and the community had the opportunity to experience how this technology works firsthand by going behind the controls of the robot.

“Robotic-assisted procedures mean better precision for our surgeons, smaller incisions, fewer complications, and shorter hospital stays,” said Dr. Dennis Hernandez, CEO of AdventHealth New Smyrna Beach. “Ultimately, this technology will contribute to a better experience for our patients and better outcomes overall.”

Dr. Tara Wilson, a general surgeon who specializes in robotic surgery and is one of two surgeons currently performing robotic procedures at AdventHealth New Smyrna Beach, performed the hospital’s very first case, a hernia repair.

“The system’s advanced robotic computer and optical technologies allow surgeons to perform complex procedures through small incisions, using miniature instruments attached to robotic arms resulting in less trauma to the body,” explained Wilson. “This robotic system provides our surgeons with far greater minimally invasive options, and as a surgeon myself, I can attest to the fact that this technology has advantages over traditional laparoscopic surgery.”

This surgical system is not limited to general surgery procedures but is also used in an array of advanced procedures, including gynecological and urological surgeries.

“The robotic arms are fully controlled by the physician, but it also augments the capabilities of the physician because it gives them better control of the surgical tissues and suturing inside the body,” said Dr. Willy Bustinza, general surgeon. “It is such a joy to watch students interact with this highly advanced equipment and to give students a hands-on opportunity to learn about the robot’s capabilities. We hope it is a memorable experience in their journey should they chose to pursue careers in the health care field.”

Beyond surgical advancements, AdventHealth New Smyrna Beach also celebrated a significant transition in cancer care services. As of November, all cancer treatments are now provided on-site by AdventHealth clinicians, another first for the community in southeastern Volusia County.

The AdventHealth Cancer Institute is nationally recognized and ranked among the top 50 in the nation by U.S. News and World Report. It has also been recognized for excellence by the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers and the American College of Radiology, among other respected organizations.

“Our comprehensive continuum of care includes services ranging from disease prevention and state-of-the-art detection to treatment and research along with the area’s only genetic counseling services,” said Michelle Rosato, oncology administrator for the AdventHealth East Florida Division. “Educational, psychological and spiritual support round out the comprehensive approach to cancer care available to AdventHealth patients and their families.”

At the end of the celebrations, Khelsea Bauer, chief operating officer of AdventHealth New Smyrna Beach, reflected on the organization's dedication to advancing health care accessibility.

“Our investment in cutting-edge technology and world-class clinical talent underscores our commitment to providing innovative, leading-edge care to the community,” added Khelsea Bauer, COO, AdventHealth New Smyrna Beach. “Our goal is to become a destination for patients seeking the most advanced health care options. And our new da Vinci robot and nationally recognized cancer care will certainly help us achieve this goal.”