Berger Hospital Surgeon Completes 1,000th Robotic Surgery

Berger Hospital Surgeon Completes 1,000th Robotic Surgery

Key Takeaways

• Dr. Deepa Shah has completed her 1,000th robotic-assisted surgery at OhioHealth Berger Hospital, reflecting increased use of minimally invasive surgical techniques at the facility.
• Data shows robotic procedures are associated with reduced patient pain, shorter hospital stays, fewer readmissions and faster recovery times.
• The availability of advanced surgical procedures at Berger Hospital allows patients in Circleville and surrounding communities to receive care locally, decreasing the need for travel and supporting better access to surgical treatment.

OhioHealth Berger Hospital surgeon Dr. Deepa Shah has completed her 1,000th robotic-assisted surgery, marking a major milestone in the continued growth of minimally invasive surgical care in the Circleville area.

Shah said the achievement reflects how robotic surgery has evolved locally in recent years and expanded access to advanced care for patients closer to home.

"This is evidence of how far we've come," Shah said. "We are seeing minimally invasive surgery become the standard here, and more people in Circleville and our surrounding communities are able to get the advanced care they need without having to leave home."

Since introducing the da Vinci surgical system, Berger Hospital has expanded robotic-assisted techniques across a range of procedures, including gallbladder removal, hernia repairs, colon and bowel surgery, reflux operations and select women's health procedures.

Hospital leaders say the approach has led to measurable benefits for patients, including less pain, shorter hospital stays, fewer readmissions and faster recovery times compared to traditional surgical methods.

Robotic surgery at Berger Hospital is supported by ongoing investments in hospital infrastructure, including a $10 million expansion project that added a new operating suite equipped with robotic technology. The project also included upgrades to pre- and post-operative care areas designed to improve patient comfort and recovery.

Casey Liddy, president of Berger Hospital, said the milestone reflects the hospital's long-term commitment to expanding access to advanced care locally.

"Our goal has always been to ensure patients can access specialized care close to home," Liddy said. "These investments allow us to do that while improving outcomes and the overall patient experience."

Shah said the benefits of minimally invasive surgery are especially important for rural patients who might otherwise need to travel for care.

"We believe these minimally invasive techniques offer real benefits for our patients," she said. "For many families, being able to stay in their own community and still receive advanced surgical care truly makes a difference."

She added that local access reduces both financial and emotional strain for patients and families.

"You don't have to travel for good care," Shah said. "Leaving home and having to drive into another hospital that isn't close to home is expensive. It is hard on families. It is taxing. It is uncomfortable. If we can get care locally, this really helps us."

Over the past several years, Berger Hospital has continued to invest in surgical capabilities, including redesigned operating rooms, private pre- and post-operative spaces, and expanded recovery and waiting areas for patients and families.

"These improvements are designed to make surgical care not only safer and more efficient, but also more supportive for patients and their loved ones," Liddy said.

Hospital leaders say they remain focused on expanding access to advanced surgical care throughout Pickaway County and surrounding communities as the program continues to grow.