Redefining Kidney Surgery with Single Port Robotics at USMD Hospital Arlington

At the Forefront of Innovation

How a chance discovery led to advanced care at USMD Hospital at Arlington

At USMD Hospital at Arlington, we are at the forefront of innovative care, and a powerful example is the single-port robotic technology used in Gary O’Riley’s kidney surgery. Gary had no symptoms, but after a fall, a scan revealed what physicians refer to as an ‘incidentaloma’ or a mass found unexpectedly. In many cases like Gary’s, these small renal masses are typically cancerous, even when they measure just a few centimeters, as his did at 3 cm.

Kidney masses like this are less common than cancers such as breast, skin, prostate, or colon, and they often don’t present symptoms until later stages, sometimes only appearing as blood in the urine. Because of this, early incidental detection is a true blessing. When Gary was made aware that a mass was discovered, he was told to follow up with a urologist for further evaluation. Gary started looking for a kidney surgeon in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex and that’s when he found Dr. Scott Thurman, a urologist on the medical staff at USMD Hospital at Arlington and a physician at Urology Partners of North Texas. Gary confirmed that Dr. Thurman was in network with his insurance plan and easily booked his consultation.

“Many kidney masses are discovered incidentally, but early detection gives us the opportunity to treat them effectively with minimally invasive options that preserve kidney function and get patients back to their lives quickly.” – Scott Thurman, MD

A Personalized Surgical Plan

Why single-port robotic partial nephrectomy was the right choice

After evaluating Gary’s case, Dr. Scott Thurman recommended Gary undergo a partial nephrectomy using the single-port robotic platform. The da Vinci SP system revolutionizes the way surgeries are performed as this approach uses a single small incision, unlike traditional multi-port or laparoscopic surgery, resulting in less pain, faster recovery, and in many cases, a same day return home. For Gary this would mean less time in the hospital and a quicker return to the golf course.

Gary shared, “I was very anxious when I had my first appointment with Dr. Thurman, but I left feeling completely confident in our treatment plan and Dr. Thurman’s capabilities. He is an excellent communicator, and it was very apparent he wanted to ensure I was comfortable with the treatment plan we developed together. I left that appointment feeling at peace and confident in our next steps.”

Leading the Region in Advanced Technology

Why USMD Hospital at Arlington stands apart in robotic surgery

USMD Hospital at Arlington is one of only three hospitals in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, and the only one in Arlington, offering this advanced single-port robotic technology, with two systems available. Dr. Thurman is at the forefront of this innovation and has been instrumental in bringing this technology to patients across the Arlington and DFW metroplex.

This technology is also expanding beyond urology. At USMD, single-port robotics are being utilized in colorectal procedures, including both transanal and transabdominal approaches, and have growing applications in other specialties as well.

“Advanced technology is extremely powerful when combined with experience and communication. That partnership is what leads to great outcomes for patients.” — Scott Thurman, MD

USMD Hospital at Arlington is also proud to serve as an observation and training site for this technology as Dr. Thurman, alongside Dr. Adam Hollander, also a physician with Urology Partners of North Texas, both actively train other surgeons, helping extend these advanced capabilities to more patients.

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with a kidney mass or a similar condition, we encourage you to explore your options and learn how advanced surgical technology, like single port robotic surgery, can make a difference in your care.

Gary’s experience reflects what’s possible with the right combination of early detection, expert care, and leading-edge technology. He shared, “Dr. Thurman is the greatest surgeon on the planet and USMD Hospital at Arlington is like a 5-star hotel. I was completely amazed not only by the precision of the procedure, but also how quickly I was able to get back to the activities I love, including golf.”

Contact USMD Hospital at Arlington today to learn more about how we can support you on your path to healing.