Expanding Local Access to Advanced Surgery Options
In a bold step toward advancing innovation and patient-centered care, ThedaCare is the first healthcare system in northeast and central Wisconsin to secure the da Vinci SP (Single Port) robotic surgery system. The investment from the generosity of the ThedaCare Family of Foundations and the ThedaCare Foundation-Neenah expands access to minimally invasive surgical procedures which can enhance the experience for patients and families across the region. The robot was used by teams at ThedaCare Regional Medical Center-Neenah who performed first surgeries for patients in June 2026.
The da Vinci SP by Intuitive is a minimally invasive surgical platform available to healthcare systems. It empowers surgeons to perform complex procedures, particularly in breast, urology, and head and neck surgery, through a single, small incision.
“Our investment in the da Vinci SP is ultimately about what matters most – our patients,” said Kellie Diedrick, senior vice president of the ThedaCare South Market. “We are committed to bringing the latest advancements in care to the communities we serve. It’s one more way we are ensuring that patients and families have access to advanced, high-quality care close to home, when they need it most.”
According to Intuitive, the da Vinci SP can be used in colorectal, thoracic and prostatectomy surgeries. The surgical system also provides an opportunity for treating complex urology and cancer cases, continuing to support ThedaCare as a regional leader in these specialties.
“Technology advancements such as the da Vinci SP gives our teams the opportunity to elevate the care we provide,” said Dr. Cynthia Geocaris, medical director for Surgical Robotics at ThedaCare. “It allows us to deliver more innovative, precise treatments for our patients while ensuring we stay at the leading edge of medical progress.”
This newest advancement is a natural extension of ThedaCare’s existing da Vinci ecosystem and will be easily incorporated into the current surgical spaces at the Neenah campus.
Benefits to the Patient
While robotic surgery may seem like a new concept, the technology does not replace the surgeon. The surgeon remains in full control, guiding every movement and decision throughout the procedure. Robotic-assisted technology enhances a surgeon’s precision by enabling minimally invasive procedures with smaller instruments, greater dexterity and more refined movements, allowing for meticulous dissections.
For patients, innovative surgery systems can provide additional benefits. Smaller incisions can often mean less pain, potentially shorter recovery times and fewer days in the hospital, explained Dr. Geocaris.
“These benefits mean that we can help patients get back to work or their activities faster,” she said. “I often hear from patients that their recovery time can make a difference in the decision whether to proceed with a surgery. We want to do everything we can to help them feel confident in their choices, and this type of robotic surgery system supports those efforts.”
The da Vinci SP system also creates additional surgery options for those experiencing a breast cancer diagnosis. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration recently approved the robotic nipple-sparing mastectomy. ThedaCare will be among the first healthcare systems to offer this advancement. The technology is designed around both clinical excellence and the patient experience. Single-port robotic techniques allow surgeons to perform procedures through smaller, more discreet incisions while supporting precision and preservation during treatment.
“This technology represents an important advancement for patients who need breast cancer surgery,” said Dr. Geocaris. “By enabling nipple-sparing mastectomy through a hidden incision, the robotic system can help reduce visible scarring and support improved reconstructive outcomes, while still maintaining a strong focus on cancer treatment and safety.”
“For many patients, breast cancer treatment is not only physical, it’s deeply emotional,” said Diedrick. “Robotic-assisted techniques may help preserve body image and reduce physical trauma during surgery.”
History of Leading Robotic Surgery
ThedaCare began investing in robotic surgery in 2007, with the addition of the first da Vinci surgical robot. Since then, ThedaCare has continued to enhance robotic surgery capabilities and access. The healthcare system offers robotic surgery at Appleton, Berlin, Neenah, Oshkosh, Shawano and Waupaca hospitals.
Most general surgeries that have been traditionally done laparoscopically can be done via robotics, including operations on the abdomen, blood vessels, breast and soft tissue, and more.
“ThedaCare has long established itself as a national leader in robotic surgery,” said Dr. Geocaris. “We are proud to be at the forefront of this innovation, ensuring we are providing more options for the communities in northeast and central Wisconsin.”
Additionally, several of ThedaCare’s general surgeons have advanced training and specialized expertise in areas such as trauma surgery and cancer care. These complex cases often require a high level of skill and precision, particularly when injury or disease impacts multiple areas of the body.
ThedaCare is nationally recognized for its leading robotic surgery program. Access to the latest robotic surgical technology will enhance resident education, making ThedaCare a top destination for aspiring surgeons to train.
“Doctors from around the country come to ThedaCare to learn robotic surgery skills from our expert surgeons,” said Diedrick. “Additionally, both residents and physician’s assistant students study robotic surgery at ThedaCare. This is one way that we are continuing to invest in the future of healthcare and meet the needs of our communities.”
Support from Community Donors
ThedaCare’s investment in the da Vinci SP was made possible entirely through the generosity of community donors to the ThedaCare Family of Foundations and ThedaCare Foundations-Neenah. Their commitment to advancing local healthcare accelerates progress, fosters innovation and reflects a shared vision for bringing leading-edge technology to the region.
“Innovation in healthcare doesn’t happen by chance, it happens because people in our community believe in our mission. We are deeply grateful for the generosity of our donors, whose support makes it possible to bring advanced technologies like this to our patients and families,” said Barbara Beuscher, CFRE, Chief Philanthropy Officer, ThedaCare Family of Foundations. “It is truly a transformational time at ThedaCare, as we stand at a threshold of bold change, an opportunity to revolutionize how we deliver care, fueled by innovative thinking.”
Beuscher noted that through philanthropy, ThedaCare can move quickly, pilot bold new ideas and continuously bring the latest technology and best practices to patients.
To learn more about robotic surgery services within the ThedaCare system, please visit
ThedaCare.org/services/surgery/.
ThedaCare is the first healthcare system in northeast and central Wisconsin to secure the da Vinci SP (Single Port) robotic surgery system. The investment expands access to minimally invasive surgical procedures which can enhance the experience for patients and families across the region. It empowers surgeons to perform complex procedures, particularly in breast, urology, and head and neck surgery, through a single, small incision. The robot was used by teams at ThedaCare Regional Medical Center-Neenah who performed first surgeries for patients in June 2026.
For b-roll of the da Vinci SP (Single Port) robotic surgery system, please click here.
About ThedaCare
For more than 115 years, ThedaCare® has been improving the health and well-being of the communities it serves in northeast and central Wisconsin. The organization delivers care to more than 650,000 residents in 17 counties, and employs approximately 7,000 providers and team members at 180 points of care, including 10 hospitals. As an organization committed to being a leader in Population Health, team members are dedicated to empowering people to live their unique, best lives. ThedaCare is a not-for-profit health system with a level II trauma center, comprehensive cancer treatment, stroke and cardiac programs, as well as primary care. ThedaCare also partners with communities to understand needs, find solutions together, and encourage health awareness and action. ThedaCare is part of Froedtert ThedaCare, Wisconsin’s most comprehensive healthcare system.
Date posted: June 26, 2026