Jodi Henrikson, MD, recently completed certification to perform surgery using the da Vinci robot-assisted surgery system. Dr. Henrikson specializes in obstetrics and gynecology at The University of Kansas Health System. 

“I am pleased to offer this service to our patients,” Dr. Henrikson said. “For many women, robot-assisted gynecologic surgery is an excellent, minimally invasive alternative to traditional open surgery, depending on a person’s conditions or symptoms.”

Minimally invasive robot-assisted surgery may be used to perform hysterectomies, remove fibroids or cysts, and treat endometriosis and other conditions. In the past, most gynecological surgeries were performed using a large abdominal incision, which required longer hospital stays and up to six weeks’ recovery time. Robot-assisted surgery can be performed where traditional laparoscopy can’t or would be too difficult.

“Some of the benefits of robot-assisted surgery include smaller incisions, shorter hospital stays, less postoperative pain and faster recovery,” Dr. Henrikson said. 

Certification to use the robotic system took Dr. Henrikson about three months. Training included weekly sessions with a da Vinci representative, a day of surgical observation and a full-day course of training in Hartford, Conn.

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Henrikson, call 620-792-2151.