10,000 Procedures, One Commitment: How Robotic-Assisted Surgery Is Transforming Care at Parkwest

A Milestone for Advanced Care 

Thousands of East Tennessee patients have benefited from robotic-assisted surgery, often experiencing shorter recoveries and less pain after surgery. Now, Covenant Health’s Parkwest Medical Center has reached a significant milestone, surpassing 10,000 robotic-assisted surgical procedures.  The achievement highlights the hospital’s commitment to expanding access to advanced treatment options while improving the surgical experience for patients throughout the region. 

“Reaching 10,000 robotic surgeries is a remarkable achievement for our hospital and our community. Every procedure represents a patient who trusted us with their care. This milestone reflects years of dedication from our physicians, nurses, surgical teams and support staff, all working toward a shared goal of delivering exceptional care,” said Devan Johnson, president and chief administrative officer of Parkwest Medical Center. 

Bringing Advanced Technology to East Tennessee 

Robotic-assisted surgery is a minimally invasive approach that allows specially trained surgeons to perform procedures using advanced technology that enhances precision, visibility and control. While the technology is sophisticated, it remains fully directed by the surgeon throughout the operation. Parkwest offers robotic-assisted surgical options across multiple specialties, helping patients access advanced care without leaving the region. 

For many patients, robotic-assisted surgery can lead to smaller incisions, less pain, reduced blood loss, a lower risk of infection and a faster return to everyday activities. These benefits have contributed to the growth of robotic-assisted surgery programs nationwide and at Parkwest. 

“Our commitment is to provide the highest level of care possible while keeping that care accessible for the people we serve. By investing in innovative technology and supporting highly skilled physicians, we’re ensuring that patients in East Tennessee can receive advanced surgical treatment right here in their own community,” Johnson explained. 

One Surgeon’s Role in a Larger Story 

 Norma Edwards, MD, a general surgeon specializing in laparoscopic and robotic-assisted surgery at Parkwest Medical Center, recently celebrated a milestone of her own, surpassing 1,000 robotic-assisted procedures during her career. She performs robotic-assisted surgery for a variety of conditions, including hernia repair, gallbladder disease, acid reflux and colon cancer. 

 Since joining Parkwest in 2017, Dr. Edwards has helped expand the hospital’s robotic-assisted surgery program and minimally invasive options for patients. 

“When I performed my first robotic procedure, I recognized the potential this technology had to change the way we care for patients. Reaching 1,000 robotic surgeries is meaningful because each procedure represents a person who trusted me and our team during an important moment in their life. The milestone belongs just as much to the patients and surgical teams who made it possible,” Dr. Edwards said. 

Improving the Patient Experience 

For Dr. Edwards, the true value of robotic-assisted surgery is not the technology itself but the benefits it can provide to patients. 

“Robotic-assisted surgery allows us to perform many procedures through smaller incisions with incredible precision. For patients, that often means less pain, shorter hospital stays and a quicker recovery. The most rewarding part is seeing patients return to their families, jobs and everyday activities sooner than they might have with more traditional surgical approaches,” she added. 

As robotic-assisted surgery continues to evolve, physicians gain access to tools that support greater precision and personalization during procedures. Combined with the expertise of highly trained surgeons, the technology has become an important part of delivering high-quality surgical care across a wide range of specialties. 

Built on Teamwork and Excellence 

Reaching 10,000 robotic-assisted procedures is a reflection of collaboration across the organization.  The milestone reflects the work of teams across the hospital, including surgeons, operating room staff, support teams and hospital leaders. 

“Innovation isn’t about technology alone. It’s about bringing together talented people who are committed to providing the very best care. The success of our robotic-assisted surgery program reflects the teamwork, expertise and dedication that define Parkwest Medical Center every day,” Johnson said. 

The milestone also reflects Parkwest’s commitment to expanding access to advanced surgical care throughout the region.  

Looking Ahead 

 While 10,000 procedures is an important milestone, the focus remains on continuing to expand access to minimally invasive surgical care and improve the patient experience. 

“The future of robotic-assisted surgery is incredibly exciting. As technology continues to advance, we will have even more opportunities to improve outcomes, enhance recovery and expand access to minimally invasive care. We’re proud of what we’ve accomplished, but we’re even more excited about what’s ahead for the patients and communities we serve,” Johnson said. 

 Parkwest continues to invest in technology, training and clinical expertise to expand robotic-assisted surgical capabilities and meet the needs of patients across East Tennessee. Those efforts are helping increase access to minimally invasive treatment options while building on the success of the program. 

Learn more about robotic-assisted surgery and other surgical services available at Parkwest Medical Center.