Milestones like this highlight the dedication of our physicians and teammates to transform what is possible in the operating room and beyond. From implementing innovative technology, to performing life changing surgeries, and training surgeons nationwide to make similar impact, @Ascension Via Christi is enhancing patient experiences, delivering outstanding care, and redefining excellence.
Congratulations to surgical oncologist Ali Ahmad, MD FACS, for completing his 350th robotic-assisted hepatectomy, at Via Christi St. Francis, using Intuitive's da Vinci Surgical System — a rare and complex achievement in the world of surgery. A hepatectomy (liver resection) involves removing part or all of the liver, often to treat cancer. Performing it robotically means smaller incisions, less scarring, and potentially faster recovery times for eligible patients — a major advancement over traditional open surgery. These procedures fall under HPB (Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary) surgery, which includes intricate operations involving the liver, pancreas, gallbladder, and bile ducts. Here’s why this matters: - In the last 12 months, 100% of eligible HPB cases at Via Christi St. Francis were done robotically. - That’s compared to a national average of just 49%. - St. Francis is one of a few hospitals in the country, and the only regional hospital to offer virtual training and live case observations on the latest da Vinci 5 system. Because of that leadership, surgeons from across the country can either travel to Wichita to learn from Dr. Ahmad and the St. Francis surgical team or connect with them virtually. Kudos to Dr. Ahmad and our surgical team for providing Kansans with world-class, minimally invasive care — close to home. #RoboticSurgery #SurgicalInnovation #HPBSurgery #daVinciSurgery #LiverSurgery #HealthcareInnovation #ViaChristi #Ascension