Colorectal diseases remain one of the leading causes of death in the Philippines, with many cases diagnosed only at advanced stages due to the lack of early symptoms. Recognizing the urgent need for innovation in this field, St. Luke’s Medical Center has been at the forefront of adopting cutting-edge surgical technology, including robotic-assisted colorectal surgery, offered as early as 2019.

“St. Luke’s Medical Center has the highest number of practicing surgeons performing robotic-assisted colorectal procedures,” shares Dr. Hermogenes Monroy, Head of the Institute of Surgery at St. Luke’s Global City.

This expertise is part of a broader effort by St. Luke’s to integrate robotic surgery across multiple specialties, enabling more complex procedures with higher precision.

“With robotic surgeons from colorectal surgery, OB-GYN, and urology working together, we can perform two to three surgeries simultaneously in a single session,” explains Dr. Romulo Cabantac III, Colorectal Surgeon at St. Luke’s Global City and Quezon City.

Revolutionizing Colorectal Surgery with the Da Vinci System

Traditionally, colorectal surgeries involved open procedures that required large incisions and full exposure of abdominal organs, leading to higher infection risks and prolonged recovery. The Da Vinci robotic system has changed that.

“Open surgery often results in more infections and postoperative complications due to greater exposure of organs,” notes Dr. Monroy.

Robotic-assisted surgery, on the other hand, offers minimally invasive access, enhanced precision, and less trauma to surrounding tissues.

This is particularly important in colorectal procedures, where accurate access to deep and confined areas such as the pelvis is crucial.

“Robotic tools allow surgeons to operate with greater precision in confined spaces that are challenging to reach with conventional instruments. That level of precision is especially valuable in pelvic surgery,” says Dr. Gilmyr Jude Marañon, Colorectal Surgeon at St. Luke’s Global City and Quezon City.

Faster Recovery, Less Pain, Better Outcomes

Postoperative care is crucial for colorectal patients, particularly in facilitating the recovery of bowel function. With robotic surgery’s smaller incisions and targeted precision, patients experience less pain, fewer complications, and faster return to normal activities.

“Patients benefit from quicker bowel movement recovery and shorter hospital stays,” Dr. Marañon adds.

In contrast to laparoscopic surgery, which utilizes two-dimensional imaging and rigid instruments, the Da Vinci system provides 3D magnification and flexible instruments for enhanced control.

“Laparoscopic tools are limited in dexterity. Robotic instruments provide better movement, precision, and visualization,” explains Dr. Andrei Cesar Abella, Colorectal Surgeon at St. Luke’s Global City and Quezon City.

Confidence in Complex Cases

Robotic-assisted surgery has proven especially beneficial for patients with high BMI, where thick abdominal walls make open surgery more invasive and risky. It also reduces the need to convert laparoscopic procedures to open surgery, a standard limitation.

“In difficult laparoscopic cases, we often end up converting to open surgery. Robotic assistance minimizes that risk,” says Dr. Monroy.

With robotic platforms, surgeons are not only empowered to perform more complex procedures safely, but they also do so with greater confidence, accuracy, and reduced patient risk.

St. Luke’s Medical Center continues to lead the way in robotic-assisted colorectal surgery in the Philippines—delivering world-class care, faster recovery, and better surgical outcomes for every patient.

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