John Cromwell, M.D. performed the first robotic colorectal surgery in the Southeastern part of the country. The Minimally Invasive Surgery Center at Methodist University Hospital is home to some of the most innovative surgical procedures and techniques available anywhere in the United States.

“We are extremely fortunate to be on the forefront of robotic surgery here at Methodist University Hospital,” said Dr. Cromwell. “It allows us to provide exceptional care for our patients.”

Dr. Cromwell says currently robotic surgical equipment is best suited for operating on one particular location on the body. This is ideal for colon surgery because it focuses on either the left or right side of the colon or part of the rectum inside the pelvis. Robotic colorectal surgery can help treat colon polyps, colon cancer, or diverticular diseases including divertulosis and diverticulitis, inflammation of the colon.

Benefits of robotic surgery include:

• Shorter hospital stay
• Less blood loss
• Less pain
• Rapid return to activities

Read Sheila Hall's story. She was the first patient in Tennessee to have robotic colorectal surgery. 

Learn more about robotic surgery at Methodist hospitals.