CINCINNATI (March 16, 2026) – The Christ Hospital Health Network expanded its offerings in state-of-the-art, minimally invasive robotic surgery using the da Vinci SP surgical robot for thoracic surgery. The Christ Hospital is the only system in Cincinnati that has the single port robot and is using it for several surgical specialties.
Last week, Julian Guitron, MD, thoracic surgeon with The Christ Hospital Health Network and his team of providers performed the first two thoracic surgeries using the SP Robot in Cincinnati. The SP system allows the surgeons to reach the chest for lung and mediastinal procedures without going in between the ribs, therefore, decreasing significantly postoperative pain. The SP system allows even quicker recovery times due to the minimal incisions and avoiding the intercostal spaces.
“We are thrilled to be able to use the SP surgical robotic system for more procedures at The Christ Hospital Health Network,” said Dr. Guitron. “This system is a potential game-changer for patients looking for advanced robotic thoracic surgery as it allows us to avoid disrupting the intercostal spaces altogether, which is one of the most important sources of postoperative pain. We are proud that The Christ Hospital continues to be on the cutting-edge with the latest technology allowing our teams to accomplish everything it takes to achieve excellent outcomes for our patients and the community.”
The Da Vinci SP robot is part of The Christ Hospital’s esteemed fleet of robotic systems. These systems are integral to performing a wide range of complex surgeries across various specialties, all controlled by skilled surgeons at console workstations that offer enhanced visualization and maneuverability beyond human capability. In addition to thoracic or lunger surgery, the SP robot is used in certain heart procedures, cancers and ear nose and throat surgeries, all using minimally invasive techniques.
About The Christ Hospital Health Network
The Christ Hospital Health Network consists of an acute care hospital located in Mt. Auburn, a remote hospital location in Liberty Township, five ambulatory outpatient centers and dozens of medical offices throughout the region. For 136 years, The Christ Hospital has provided compassionate care to those it serves. Made up of more than 1,300 physicians and more than 7,200 team members, our mission is to improve the health of our community by providing exceptional outcomes in an affordable way. The Network was recognized by U.S. News & World Report as the #1 hospital in the Cincinnati Region and named to Newsweek’s World’s Best Hospitals list in 2026.