Virtua Introduces New Robotic Cancer Treatment To NJ

CAMDEN, NJ — Virtua Health became the first group in New Jersey and the Greater Philadelphia region to use a type of robotic-assisted method to treat certain forms of cancer, the organization said.

The Whipple surgery is used to treat pancreatic cancers and cancers of other nearby areas and is named after Dr. Allen Whipple, who first performed the procedure in 1935.

It's used mainly to target tumors in the head of the pancreas. It can also help treat benign conditions like pancreatitis.

The pancreas, small intestine, gallbladder, bile duct, and parts of the stomach may all need to be removed and reconstructed.

The use of this new machine-aided version of the operation leads to smaller cuts, faster recovery, and enhanced precision from the traditional Whipple method, professionals said.

While performing the operation, the surgeon controls robotic arms that are used with high-definition 3D cameras to show real-time, advanced magnification images of the site.

Robotic Whipple can reduce blood loss, pain, scarring, and recovery by a number of weeks. It can also reduce the risk of complications like infection or major digestive issues.

To learn more about the treatment and Virtua's services, visit the system's Advanced Transplant and Organ Health website.

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