Dignity Health Marian Regional Medical Center Enhances Surgical Capabilities with Second da Vinci Surgical Robot, Expanding Access to Minimally Invasive Procedures

Santa Maria – July 14, 2025 - Dignity Health Marian Regional Medical Center is proud to announce the acquisition of a second da Vinci surgical robot, thanks to a generous philanthropic donation of $500,000. The da Vinci Xi® surgical system by Intuitive can be used across a spectrum of minimally invasive surgical procedures and enables multi-quadrant access for gynecology, urology, thoracic, cardiac, and general surgeries. We are thrilled to be a leader in this field and look forward to continually bringing the Central Coast advanced minimally invasive surgical options. This second da Vinci surgical system significantly expands the capacity to offer advanced, minimally invasive surgical options to patients in the Central Coast region. This investment underscores Marian Regional Medical Center’s commitment to providing cutting-edge technology and exceptional patient care.

The da Vinci Xi® Surgical System allows surgeons to perform complex procedures with enhanced precision, dexterity, and control, all through small incisions. This translates to numerous benefits for patients, including:

Reduced Pain and Scarring: Smaller incisions lead to less post-operative pain and minimal scarring
Shorter Hospital Stays: Patients typically recover faster and are discharged sooner
Faster Recovery Times: Reduced trauma to the body allows for a quicker return to normal activities
Less Blood Loss: Minimally invasive techniques minimize blood loss during surgery
Reduced Risk of Infection: Smaller incisions lower the risk of post-operative infections
Reduced Risk of Hernia: Smaller incisions lower the risk of developing incisional hernias, a common complication of open surgery.

The addition of a second da Vinci robot will allow Marian Regional Medical Center to expand its robotic surgery program, offering minimally invasive options for a wider range of procedures, including colorectal, general, gynecologic, urologic, and thoracic surgeries.

"The da Vinci robot allows me to perform complex colorectal surgeries with greater precision and control, leading to better outcomes for my patients," said Dr. Joel Dean, Colorectal Surgeon at Marian Regional Medical Center. "The minimally invasive approach results in less pain, faster recovery, and a quicker return to their normal lives. Having a second robot means we can serve more patients in our community."

"As an OB/GYN, I'm thrilled about the addition of a second da Vinci system at Marian Regional Medical Center," explains Dr. Elaine Yin. "It expands our ability to offer minimally invasive surgical options to our GYN patients, particularly those who may be considering future pregnancies. The precision of robotic surgery can help preserve fertility and minimize scarring, leading to better outcomes for women's reproductive health."

"At Marian Regional Medical Center, we are dedicated to providing our patients with the most advanced and effective treatment options available," said Sue Andersen, Hospital President and CEO. "The addition of a second da Vinci robot demonstrates our ongoing commitment to investing in technology that improves patient outcomes and enhances the overall patient experience. This expansion will allow us to serve more patients in our community with the benefits of minimally invasive surgery."

Marian Regional Medical Center is a state-of-the-art facility dedicated to providing compassionate, high-quality care to the Central Coast community. With the addition of a second da Vinci Surgical System, the hospital is further solidifying its position as a leader in surgical innovation and patient-centered care. A second da Vinci robot will also help attract and recruit more surgeons to the Central Coast area.

For more information or media interviews please contact [email protected].

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About Marian Regional Medical Center
Marian Regional Medical Center is a state-of-the-art, 191-bed medical center located in Santa Maria, California. The modern facility is home to a broad array of services including a level II trauma center, a level III neonatal intensive care unit, a nationally recognized cardiac care center, and the Central Coast’s only Comprehensive Community Cancer Program as recognized by the Commission on Cancer. Marian has been recognized for quality and patient safety and has received an “A” grade in hospital safety from the Leapfrog Group. Learn more at dignityhealth.org/marianregional.

About Dignity Health Central Coast
Seven award-winning hospitals comprise Dignity Health Central Coast: Arroyo Grande Community Hospital in Arroyo Grande, Dominican Hospital in Santa Cruz, French Hospital Medical Center in San Luis Obispo, Marian Regional Medical Center in Santa Maria, Sequoia Hospital in Redwood City, St. John’s Regional Medical Center in Oxnard and St. John’s Hospital Camarillo, all recognized for their quality of care, safety, and service.

Additionally, Dignity Health Central Coast has a network of nearly 50 physician offices known as Pacific Central Coast Health Centers that include primary care, cancer care and various specialty offices. Dignity Health Central Coast also includes premier ambulatory surgery centers, technologically advanced imaging centers, outpatient services, and comprehensive home health services.

Learn more at dignityhealth.org/centralcoast.