Dr. Emmett Lotton, a general surgeon, has completed 1,000 procedures using the da Vinci robotic-assisted surgical system introduced a decade ago by Memorial Health System. (Photo Provided)

MARIETTA — A surgeon has completed his 1,000th procedure using the da Vinci robotic-assisted surgical system introduced a decade ago by Memorial Health System.

“It’s incredible to hit this milestone, 1,000 robotic surgeries, all while delivering advanced care to the Mid-Ohio Valley. We’re just getting started,” said general surgeon Dr. Emmett Lotton, who completed the operation on March 13. “I’m excited for even more cases, tackling greater challenges and seeing what’s possible with this advanced surgical technology right here at home.”

Robotic surgery has become an integral part of care across multiple specialties at Memorial, including oncology, general surgery, OBGYN and urology, among others. The system enhances the ability to perform minimally invasive procedures that lead to improved outcomes and faster recovery times for patients, according to a press release from Memorial.

Lotton also sees patients for consultations and follow-up care at the Athens Medical Campus in the Department of Specialty Care. Soon, he will expand his expertise to Memorial Health System’s Athens Surgical Services, where he will also perform general surgery.