HONESDALE, PA — Wayne Memorial Hospital has been using an advanced surgical robot, the Da Vinci Xi, from a California-based company since February.

This paves the way for an anticipated upgrade with federal funding. The federal government has allocated $1 million in its 2024 appropriations bill for Wayne Memorial to acquire a new robotic system, pending approval from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA).

“While the receipt of federal funding is pending,” said Wayne Memorial CEO James Pettinato, “the partnership between the robot company—Intuitive—and Wayne Memorial represents our commitment to advancing health care in our community through cutting-edge minimally invasive surgery.”

Skilled robotic surgeon Jennifer Rodriguez-Aiello, M.D., began working at Wayne Memorial last summer. After operating room staff completed the long, rigorous training sessions, Dr. Rodriguez-Aiello performed Wayne Memorial’s inaugural robotic surgery in February and now serves as director of the hospital’s robotic surgery program.

“This technology will elevate our ability to deliver the highest quality surgical care to our patients,” said Dr. Rodriguez-Aiello. “For patients, it promises smaller incisions, reduced pain and faster recovery times. For surgeons, the robot offers superior optics, 3D vision, precise control, advanced haptics—or sense of touch—and unmatched ergonomic support. Embracing robotic surgery is essential to our commitment to providing state-of-the-art health care to the community.”

Robotic surgery, widely employed in specialties such as urology, gynecology and general surgery, encompasses procedures ranging from gallbladder removal to hernia repairs, prostate resections and hysterectomies.  

“Under Dr. Rodriguez-Aiello’s leadership, Wayne Memorial is expanding its repertoire of robotic surgical procedures available to residents of Wayne and surrounding counties,” Pettinato said. 

The hospital is actively training additional surgeons in robotic techniques and recruiting specialists certified in robotic surgery. Dr. Barbara Plucknett, M.D., a urogynecologist, joined Wayne Memorial in January and is already performing robotic procedures.

“While robotic surgery may not be suitable for every patient, it represents a progressive option that can significantly shorten recovery times,” said Lisa Champeau. (She served as the director of communications and development at the hospital until her recent retirement.)  

Champeau, who spearheaded the grant application, expressed gratitude to Sen. Robert Casey’s office for its support throughout the process. “Sen. Casey and his team played a crucial role in recognizing the impact of this technology on our rural community.”

Pettinato echoed these sentiments. “We are grateful to Sen. Casey for his advocacy and guidance, underscoring the importance of robotic surgery in our healthcare strategy and future surgeon recruitment efforts.”

HRSA is expected to announce its decision on or about September 30.

For more information about Wayne Memorial’s comprehensive services, visit www.wmh.org.