Great River Health Invests in Robotic Surgical System
West Burlington, Iowa, December 3, 2025 – Great River Health has invested in a da Vinci 5 robotic surgical system. They were among the first three healthcare organizations in Iowa to install this latest technology.
The da Vinci 5 robotic surgical system is currently being used for general surgery procedures on the West Burlington campus. Dr. Ediana Restivo, a General Surgeon who joined Great River Health in August, is leading this program. She trained extensively with the da Vinci 5 during her residency and brought her expertise to the region.
The investment in this latest technology will improve the patient experience, as well as attract top surgical talent, and reduce provider burnout. The benefits of robotic-assisted surgery for patients include smaller incisions and less scarring, better outcomes with fewer complications, shorter recovery times, and reduced hospital stays. For the surgeon, it provides improved surgical accuracy, precision, and visualization, while reducing fatigue.
“One of the biggest misconceptions with robotic surgery is that the robots perform the surgery on their own. The truth is the surgeon is in complete control, guiding the technology. The da Vinci 5 acts as an advanced tool, translating a surgeon’s hand movements into very precise actions,” explained Dr. Restivo.
The da Vinci 5 robotic surgical system is highly versatile and can be used for a wide range of procedures, making it a valuable asset to the health system. Great River Health is looking to expand the use of the da Vinci 5 Robot into other surgical areas beyond general surgery.
“This is a significant investment for the organization, and we want to make sure as many patients as possible have the opportunity to benefit from its use. The surgical staff have undergone considerable training on the da Vinci 5 to support the surgeons during procedures,” expressed Jennifer Lueders, Director of Surgical Services. “We are excited to have this technology at Great River Health.”