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Jersey Shore University Medical Center
The Art and Science of Surgery:
Robotic Technology Keeps Patients in Mind
In August 2012, a back injury sent 39-year-old Michael
Mahon for a routine MRI (magnetic resonance imaging). But
the results were life-changing. The imaging showed that
Michael had an unrelated growth on his kidney. After further
testing, the Avon-by-the-Sea resident was quickly referred to
Michael Lasser, M.D., urologist and medical director, Center
for Robotic Surgery at Jersey Shore University Medical Center.
Dr. Lasser diagnosed the growth as kidney cancer.
“My cancer diagnosis came as a complete shock. I had
no symptoms,” Michael says. “It was overwhelming, but
Dr. Lasser sat down and explained everything to me in
great detail. I was confident in him.”
The Robotic Difference
Dr. Lasser performed surgery to remove the cancerous
part of Michael’s kidney using the da Vinci® Surgical
System — a robotic and minimally invasive surgical
technique. Dr. Lasser is one of only a few surgeons in the
state who successfully performs the procedure, called a
partial nephrectomy.
“Without robotic assistance, this procedure would
be more difficult and may have required open surgery.
Other minimally invasive surgical options do not
provide the level of precision necessary for the
intricate stitching required to reconstruct the kidney,”
Dr. Lasser says. “By using the robotic system, we can
perform the surgery without making a large incision.
It leads to less pain and bleeding and a faster recovery
for the patient.”
During robotic surgery, the surgeon controls the robotic
system at all times. Long, thin robotic tools work through
a few small cuts in the skin. A high-definition camera,
with up to 10x magnification, gives the surgeon a superior
three-dimensional view and added precision.
“The system provides a better view of the surgical site
than is possible with the naked eye. It also mimics the
human wrist, allowing for precise movements in a very
small space,” explains Dr. Lasser. “By using this system,
we were able to remove Michael’s cancer and save his
kidney. This provides the best outcomes with the fewest
complications.”
MeridianHealth.com • 1-800-DOCTORS
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Michael Mahon’s diagnosis of kidney cancer came as a complete shock. Thankfully,
he was a candidate for robotic surgery, which left him feeling great just days after
the procedure. Today he’s back on the job at Avon-by-the-Sea Public Works.
Michael S. Lasser, M.D.
Fellowship trained in Robotic and Laparoscopic
Urologic Surgery and Endourology
Neptune • 732-775-8444
See the Future of Surgery — Now
Visit JerseyShoreUniversityMedicalCenter.com
to watch Dr. Lasser and learn about innovative
surgical solutions and upcoming lectures.
A Focus on Patient Benefits
Robotic surgery is used throughout Jersey Shore
University Medical Center because of its tremendous
benefits to patients. Currently, robot-assisted surgery is
available for urology, gynecology, and general surgery, and
the program continues to grow.
“We have a very active robotic surgery program. We
continue to train and recruit more surgeons with expertise
in this state-of-the-art surgical approach,” says Dr. Lasser.
For many patients, including Michael, this means
excellent surgical outcomes with less pain and a
quicker recovery.
Michael reports that days after surgery, he was feeling
great. And a few weeks later, his tiny surgical scars had
almost disappeared. Today, Michael is back to his job at
Avon-by-the-Sea Public Works, which involves lifting
heavy materials.
“I’m so glad this is behind me,” says Michael. “I received
unbelievable care, from the nursing staff to the surgery
itself. And my family and friends were great support.
I never felt alone.” •