6 SAHealth.com KEEPING WELL — SUMMER 2023 Sandra Esquivel had been experiencing major chest pain and back pain that would occur sporadically while either driving home or simply just sitting down watching TV. As an optician, some of Sandra’s tasks included cleaning, moving supplies, billing, and other related responsibilities, which at times could be challenging and stressful. After many visits with her cardiologist, Sandra was scheduled for a stent that unfortunately got canceled due to complications. Sandra became the first patient at Methodist Hospital | Texsan to undergo robotic coronary artery bypass grafting, or openheart surgery. Renata Ford, MD, FACS, Robotic Minimally Invasive and Thoracic Surgeon, paid a visit to Sandra immediately after her failed stent surgery and advised her of the robotic-assisted procedure. “Dr. Ford took the time to talk to me; she was caring and knowledgeable,” said Sandra. “I was very emotional and overwhelmed, but my family was also very supportive.” Robotic-assisted open-heart surgery is a minimally invasive approach that allows the attending surgeon to control a robotic arm equipped with different types of surgical instruments. The robotic arm mimics the surgeon’s hands with delicate movements that reduce bleeding, scarring, incision size, and pain. “It’s much more precise,” said Dr. Ford. The surgeon can access the heart without having to make a large incision or cut through the breastbone. Robotic-assisted surgery reduces the risk of postsurgical complications like infections and blood loss, and patients require a much shorter hospital stay. Dr. Ford performed the procedure on February 15, and Sandra completed her therapy by March 20. “Dr. Ford is very professional, and her entire team is wonderful,” said Sandra. “Just know that with Dr. Ford, you will be in excellent hands.” For more information on robotic-assisted surgery at Methodist Hospital | Texsan, visit sahealth.com/ specialties/robotic-surgery?location=methodist -hospital-texsan. Patient undergoes first robotic-assisted open-heart surgery at Methodist Hospital | Texsan
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