Newnan, Ga. (March 5, 2024) – Joseph Morris, III, M.D. and William Chad Statton, M.D., general surgeons at Piedmont Newnan Hospital, recently marked significant career milestones by each successfully completing their 1,000th robotic surgery. Specializing in various surgical procedures, Dr. Morris and Dr. Statton both utilize the state-of-the-art da Vinci Xi robot at Piedmont Newnan, and were recently honored by hospital leaders for their achievement.
“Reaching a milestone like this is very special,” said Dr. Statton. “It speaks volumes about the teamwork and collaboration of the wonderful surgical services team at Piedmont Newnan, and it means that we have made a positive impact on thousands of lives in this community.”
Piedmont Newnan introduced the da Vinci Xi Surgical Robotic System in in January 2020, solidifying its position as a pioneer in advanced medical technology. The program grew with the addition of a second da Vinci Xi machine in March 2022. The da Vinci Xi, a cutting-edge robotic tool embraced by surgeons nationwide, empowers them to perform a diverse range of procedures with unparalleled precision. The technology facilitates surgeries through a few very small incisions, promoting quicker healing and recovery for the patient and minimizing scarring.
Additionally, the robot enhances the surgeon’s visual acuity and provides a clearer image of the surgical site using a high-definition, 3D camera. This camera allows the surgeon to zoom in and magnify tiny nerves and blood vessels, offering greater visualization of the patient’s anatomy. The robot also provides greater dexterity and comfort for the surgeon.
“We are so proud of Dr. Morris and Dr. Statton for both achieving this extraordinary milestone,” said Robert Miller, M.D., CMO at Piedmont Newnan. “Their unwavering dedication to our patients and commitment to excellence in healthcare truly sets them apart.”
Piedmont Newnan currently uses the da Vinci Xi for urology, gynecology, general surgery (including bariatric surgery, hernia repairs, gall bladder and appendix removal). Over 4,000 procedures have been done on the da Vinci Xi at Piedmont Newnan, with 3,000 of those being general surgery cases.
“I would like to thank our incredible team at Piedmont Newnan Surgical Specialists and at Piedmont Newnan Hospital,” said Dr. Morris. “We have great leadership who invested in bringing this robotic system to our facility and offering minimally-invasive surgical options close to home for our patients, an extremely supportive community, and an awesome team of talented and dedicated nurses, anesthesia providers, and surgical staff who are the reason I was able to reach this milestone. This wouldn’t have been possible without them.”
Dr. Morris and Dr. Statton both practice with Piedmont Physicians Surgical Specialists in Newnan and are board-certified General Surgeons by the American Board of Surgery. They perform all types of general surgery procedures. Dr. Morris is fellowship trained in advanced minimally invasive surgery. Both specialize in robotic hernia repairs, laparoscopic gall bladder surgery, anti-reflux surgery, colon surgery, and minimally invasive abdominal surgery.
“With exceptional surgeons on our staff, Piedmont Newnan stands as a beacon of excellence in healthcare,” said Miller. “Dr. Morris and Dr. Statton’s incredible expertise, coupled with the innovative capabilities of the da Vinci Xi, ensures that our patients receive the best possible care right here at home.”
Overall, Piedmont currently has the largest fleet of robots and uses robotic-assisted surgery more than any healthcare system in Georgia, with locations across Georgia and over 175 robotically trained physicians.
For more information on Piedmont Newnan, visit piedmont.org/newnan. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Statton, call 678-423-7860 or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Morris, call 770-502-2150.