Advancing Robotic Surgery at Winchester Medical Center: A Milestone Moment

Winchester Medical Center (WMC) is taking another major step forward in surgical care with the upgrade of two da Vinci Xi robotic systems to the next‑generation da Vinci 5 (DV5) robots in the main operating room. The upgrade replaces older technology while maintaining WMC’s total of six da Vinci robotic systems.

This upgrade reflects the continued growth and evolution of our robotic surgery program, one that began in October 2016 and has expanded rapidly over the past decade. In July 2023, our teams reached a significant milestone with 5,000 robotic‑assisted cases. Just two and a half years later, in January 2026, we celebrated an even bigger achievement: 10,000 robotic cases completed.

What took nearly seven years to accomplish the first time is now being achieved in a fraction of the time—a testament to the skill of our surgeons, the dedication of our OR teams, and Valley Health’s ongoing investment in advanced surgical technology.

At Valley Health, access to advanced technology isn’t limited by the clock. Whether it’s the middle of a routine workday or the middle of the night during an emergent case, our teams are equipped to provide the best technology and surgical approach for every patient, every touch, every time.

Upgrading to the da Vinci 5 platform ensures continuity in patient care across inpatient and outpatient settings, allowing surgeons to complete procedures using the most optimal and precise modality available, when and where patients need it most.

The da Vinci 5 system brings significant advancements to the operating room, building on the strong foundation of earlier robotic platforms while introducing new capabilities that support precision, safety, and collaboration.

Key enhancements include:

• Enhanced visualization, including advanced 3D imaging and real‑time modeling
• 10,000 times the computing power of the previous generation—a fitting parallel as our program surpasses 10,000 robotic cases
• Force feedback technology, allowing surgeons to better sense tissue interaction for improved precision and safety
• Improved ergonomics, supporting surgeon comfort and control during complex procedures
• Compact, integrated design, creating a more efficient operating room environment

Together, these innovations contribute to improved patient outcomes, more efficient surgeries, and faster recovery times.

With the da Vinci 5 upgrade, robotic surgery access continues to expand across specialties, both inpatient and outpatient. This includes:

• General Surgery
• Gynecology
• Thoracic Surgery
• Surgical Oncology
• Urology
• Bariatric Surgery
• Acute Care General Surgery

In addition to patient care, the da Vinci 5 platform supports telepresence and live‑streaming, opening new opportunities for surgical education, real‑time collaboration, and team training. These features strengthen Valley Health’s commitment not only to innovation, but also to developing the next generation of surgical expertise.

This upgrade—and the milestones it represents—reflect Valley Health’s ongoing commitment to excellence in patient care, innovation, and education. Congratulations to our surgeons, operating room teams, and support staff whose dedication and expertise made this achievement possible.

As our robotic surgery program continues to grow, so does our ability to deliver advanced, high‑quality care to the communities we serve.