Northwell’s Phelps Hospital named Center of Excellence for Robotic Surgery

SLEEPY HOLLOW, NY – Northwell’s Phelps Hospitalhas been designated a Center of Excellence in Robotic Surgery by Surgical Review Corporation (SRC), an independent, internationally recognized organization that establishes and monitors patient safety and quality standards for surgical care.

The SRC Center of Excellence distinction recognizes hospitals and surgeons that meet rigorous standards for delivering high-quality perioperative and long-term follow-up care. Achieving this designation signifies Phelps Hospital’s commitment to surgical excellence and the highest quality of care and safety for patients undergoing robotic-assisted procedures.

“Receiving the SRC Center of Excellence designation for Robotic Surgery is a testament to the unwavering dedication of our entire surgical team and Northwell’s commitment to bringing advanced medical care to the Westchester community,” said Julio Teixeira, MD, director of minimally invasive surgery and robotics at Phelps Hospital. “This accreditation reassures our patients that they are receiving care that meets the highest international standards, ensuring greater precision, efficiency and the best possible outcomes.”

Elevating surgical care with advanced robotics

Phelps Hospital's robotic surgery program utilizes state-of-the-art technology, including the newlyacquired Da Vinci 5 system. This advanced platform enhances surgeons' capabilities with enhanced visualization and dexterity, as well as a sophisticated computer interface. The Da Vinci 5 allows for detailed overlaying of patient CT and MRI scans directly onto the surgical field, providing unparalleled precision during complex procedures.

In 2026, Phelps performed Westchester's first robotic Whipple procedure. For this complex operation, which typically requires a 12-day hospital stay, the robotic approach enables significantly quicker patient recovery and an earlier return home.

“Our investment in the latest robotic technology is a cornerstone of our mission to lead the evolution of surgical excellence,” said Gary Giangola, MD, surgeon-in-chief for Northwell’s Northern Market. “This SRC designation validates our efforts and underscores our promise to deliver world-class care right here in Westchester, ensuring our community has access to the most advanced surgical options available.”

To earn the SRC Center of Excellence accreditation, hospitals are evaluated on physician surgical expertise and experience, the standardization of clinical pathways for patient care, consultative services, equipment and instruments, and robust patient education programs. The designation confirms that Phelps Hospital adheres to strict evaluation guidelines that prioritize patient safety and continuous quality improvement. Patients benefit from a reduced risk of complications, faster recovery times, and improved long-term outcomes.

"This designation is a significant milestone for Phelps Hospital," said Beata Mastalerz, DNP, RN, president of Phelps Hospital. "It reflects our team’s unwavering dedication to deliver life-changing treatment to the communities we serve."