Summerville Medical Center's New Advanced Robotic System Improves Colon Cancer Recovery Time

Summerville Medical Center is recognizing a significant milestone for the hospital’s minimally invasive robotic surgery program, with the first surgery performed recently on a new state-of-the-art robotic surgical system.

Dr. Susan Knoche, a leading colorectal surgeon and advocate for advancing surgical techniques, performed the procedure. Among her patients benefiting from this cutting-edge technology is Margaret Robey, who recently underwent a sigmoid colectomy for colon cancer.

“When facing a life-changing medical diagnosis it is of upmost importance to have the support of a skilled and compassionate doctor like Dr. Knoche navigating your care,” said Mrs. Robey. “Thanks to this minimally invasive procedure, my recovery has been much quicker than expected. I was able to return home sooner and heal faster.”

Dr. Knoche emphasized the impact of robotic-assisted surgery on patient recovery: "This advanced technology significantly reduces hospital stays and accelerates healing, particularly for older patients or those who may require multiple surgeries. By enhancing precision and minimizing invasiveness, we’re able to improve outcomes and overall patient well-being."

Mrs. Robey added, “I have had two surgeries between October 2024 and January 2025 with scans, labs and appointments falling in between. Each time I am at the hospital I am greeted with warmth and professionalism. From the registration team, the lab, the team in charge of pre-admitting, nurses, volunteers, everyone has been exceptional. My journey isn’t over yet but I know I am receiving the best care with the best medical team.” 

Since launching its robotic surgery program in 2012, Summerville Medical Center has made significant investments in the field, now operating six robotic surgical systems—including five for general surgery and one dedicated to spinal procedures. To date, the hospital has performed over 7,500 minimally invasive robotic surgeries, benefiting patients across various specialties, including colorectal, gynecological, urological, orthopedic, and spine surgery.

For colon cancer patients like Mrs. Robey, as well as others in need of advanced surgical care, this technology provides tremendous benefits—enabling faster recovery, less postoperative pain, and a quicker return to normal daily activities,” said Stephen Chandler, Chief Executive Officer. “We are committed to ensuring our Lowcountry families have access to a wide range of procedures right here close to their homes, families and support systems.

The minimally invasive robotic system enhances surgical precision through high-definition 3D imaging, wristed instrumentation that exceeds human dexterity, and seamless surgeon control. The surgeon operates from a console, manipulating robotic arms that perform highly intricate movements within the patient’s body, reducing trauma to surrounding muscles and tissues and promoting faster healing.

Over the past decade, Summerville Medical Center has invested more than $250 million in expanding the hospital, opening new facilities, and elevating its services to meet the growing needs of the Lowcountry community, including:

•Opening of a Level III Neonatal ICU (NICU).

•$67 million Inpatient Tower that increased the hospital’s licensed bed count by 40% to 174 licensed private beds, including a dedicated 30-bed post-surgical unit.

•$10.5 million surgical expansion for a total of 9 operating rooms and expanded Ambulatory Care and Post-Anesthesia Care.

•Investment in five minimally invasive robotic surgical systems and one spine robotic surgical system.

•$24 million emergency department expansion, including a dedicated pediatric emergency department.

•$61 million women’s, neonatal and surgical services expansion.

Adding new access points around our community:

•Opened a third location for OB/GYN practice Summerville Women’s Care – Brighton Park near Nexton.

•Opened the Summerville Breast Center to provide comprehensive mammography and breast services.

•Opened Brighton Park Emergency, a freestanding emergency department near Nexton.

Summerville Medical Center and Trident Health continue to be recognized for excellence, earning national distinctions from Healthgrades in 2025, including:

•Top 50 Best Hospitals in the U.S. for Surgical Care

•Top 100 Best Hospitals for Spine Surgery

•Top 100 Best Hospitals for Orthopedic Surgery

•Top 100 Best Hospitals for Critical Care