Robotic-assisted Surgery for Abdominal Wall Reconstruction Offers Several Benefits to Patients
June 18, 2025
Abdominal wall reconstruction (AWR) is a surgical procedure performed to restore the structural integrity and function of the abdominal wall. This is typically done in the setting of a large or complex hernia, although other causes include cancer and traumatic injury.
Many AWR operations require open surgery due to the size of the hernia or the amount of scar tissue present in the patient, but the experts at UPMC offer a less invasive option.
“A robotic approach uses smaller incisions, providing patients with better postoperative pain control and, often, a lower risk of post-operative infection,” explains Matthew Neal, MD, a trauma and general surgeon with the UPMC Division of General Surgery.
Dr. Neal adds that the minimally invasive approach could cut the length of an average hospital stay in half compared to open surgery. And by decreasing the risk of infection, patients are less likely to return to the hospital for additional procedures.
This often means they’re also able to return to work faster or quickly return to doing personal hobbies and other activities they love.
“There are a variety of factors that help determine whether robotic surgery is appropriate for a patient, but it’s a shared decision-making process. My job is to help them understand what’s available. Ultimately, not everyone is a candidate, but they should at least be part of the initial consideration.”
Dr. Neal says the surgeons at UPMC who robotically perform AWR surgery are highly specialized and have experience working with a high volume of patients with complex hernias.
“When we put the abdominal wall back together, it requires us to move muscle, suture tissue together, and really rebuild the core of a patient. It certainly takes a substantial level of expertise.”
To learn more about the UPMC Division of General Surgery, or to refer a patient, call 412-647-3065.
