News

Contact: Karrine Brogoitti

By Trish Yerges, for Grande Ronde Hospital and Clinics

The Grande Ronde Hospital Foundation is currently fundraising to purchase the da Vinci 5, a next-generation robotic surgical system that is redefining the future of surgery and the operating room environment.
Recently, Foundation donors gathered for an appreciation event that included a live demonstration of the da Vinci 5, the newest and most advanced model of the technology. The event featured remarks from Foundation Manager Patrick Flynn and Grande Ronde Hospital President and CEO Jeremy Davis, who shared how the system would elevate patient care across Northeast Oregon.
“The da Vinci 5 is a four-armed robotic system launched by Intuitive Surgical in 2024,” Davis said as he introduced the technology to the group. “It represents a significant advancement in how surgery is performed.”
Robotic surgical systems have been used in hospitals for more than 25 years, with continuous enhancements that have improved precision, safety, and outcomes. Today, many surgeons train on this technology during residency, and it has become an expected standard in modern operating rooms.
“Surgeons are asking for it, and surgeons we’re recruiting are asking for it,” Flynn said. “Jeremy is seeing firsthand that not having this system can be a real barrier to recruiting new surgeons and providers.”
Several surgeons at Grande Ronde Hospital already use da Vinci technology, including Dr. Brandy McLendon (general surgery), Dr. David Sisul (urology), and Dr. Jeanna Romer (obstetrics and gynecology). Gynecologic surgeon Dr. Soren Matsen will also be joining the team.
“We were able to recruit Dr. Matsen because we committed to having the da Vinci 5 in place by the time he arrives,” Flynn said.
The Foundation recently exceeded its $7.5 million capital campaign goal. Based on that momentum, Flynn and Davis recommended extending fundraising efforts by an additional $1 million to help support the purchase of the da Vinci 5 Surgical System.
“It’s an exciting technology, and we’re thrilled to bring it to our corner of the state,” Flynn said. “Smaller hospitals are beginning to invest in this level of innovation, and some of our regional neighbors already have similar systems.”
The da Vinci 5 includes three primary components: a surgeon console, a vision cart, and a patient-side cart. From the console, the surgeon views a magnified, high-definition 3D image of the surgical field and controls miniature EndoWrist instruments that operate through small incisions. The vision cart manages system communications and visuals, while the patient-side cart holds the robotic arms and instruments. The system also allows for live telepresence consultation with another surgeon when needed.
The EndoWrist instruments provide a range of motion beyond the natural wrist, allowing for exceptional dexterity and precision. A wide variety of interchangeable instruments are available, including tools for grasping, cutting, suturing, cautery, vessel sealing, stapling, and more.
The da Vinci 5 also introduces a first-of-its-kind force-feedback feature, allowing surgeons to feel resistance when working with dense tissue. This technology can reduce the force applied during surgery by up to 43%. Another advanced feature, Firefly imaging, uses a dye combined with near-infrared technology to help differentiate healthy tissue from areas of concern, such as potentially cancerous tissue, thereby improving surgical accuracy.
For patients, the da Vinci 5 means smaller incisions, less blood loss, reduced pain, shorter hospital stays, and faster recoveries. The system will be used for general surgery as well as specialty procedures involving the abdomen and pelvis, and it is designed to be upgraded as new advancements become available.
“It’s important for Grande Ronde Hospital to stay at the forefront of surgical technology,” Flynn said. “This investment positions us well for the long term and supports the level of care our community deserves.”
To learn more about supporting the purchase of the da Vinci 5 Surgical System, contact Patrick Flynn at Grande Ronde Hospital or visit foundation.grh.org/davinci.