Pikeville Medical Center expands surgical services
PIKEVILLE, Ky. (ABC36 NEWS NOW) – Pikeville Medical Center says it is significantly expanding its surgical capabilities, adding four new operating suites and introducing its most advanced robotic surgery platform to date.
According to a release from Pikeville Medical Center (PMC), the expansion brings the hospital’s total number of operating suites to 24. PMC says each suite was designed for efficiency and outfitted with updated technology to support a wide range of procedures.
PMC also announced it has added the Intuitive da Vinci 5 surgical system — which the medical center describes as Intuitive’s “most advanced and integrated platform” for minimally invasive surgery. According to PMC, the new system enhances surgeon control, improves visualization, and provides real-time data to support surgical decision-making.
PMC says the da Vinci 5 can be used across urology, gynecology, bariatrics and general surgery, and will expand the number of procedures that can be performed using minimally invasive techniques. The hospital highlighted several innovations, including new Force Feedback technology that helps surgeons better gauge tension on tissue, optimized high-resolution imaging, improved ergonomics, and a massive increase in computing power compared to the previous Xi model.
“This expansion represents a significant milestone for Pikeville Medical Center and the patients we serve,” said Dr. Aaron Crum, PMC’s Chief Medical Officer. “With four new operating suites and the da Vinci 5 system, our surgical teams can offer even more precise, minimally invasive procedures that improve outcomes and support faster recovery.”
PMC also noted that it continues to expand its robotic-assisted offerings beyond the da Vinci platform. According to the medical center, the CORI robotic-assisted system is improving orthopedic procedures, while the ION robotic bronchoscopy system is strengthening the hospital’s ability to diagnose and treat lung conditions.
The hospital says its latest investments will allow surgical teams to care for more patients while continuing to offer advanced technology to the region. According to PMC, these upgrades reflect the organization’s long-term commitment to clinical excellence, innovation and meeting the health needs of Eastern Kentucky.
