VASNHS Leads the Way in Robotic Surgery Growth
VA Southern Nevada Healthcare System (VASNHS) has seen remarkable success in the growth of its robotic surgery program, making significant strides in 2024. VASNHS ranked 5th across the entire VA network for growth, experiencing a remarkable 60% increase in robotic cases last year.
VA Southern Nevada Healthcare System (VASNHS) has seen remarkable success in the growth of its robotic surgery program, making significant strides in 2024. VASNHS ranked 5th across the entire VA network for growth, experiencing a remarkable 60% increase in robotic cases last year.
Among the standout performances, Dr. Leslie Browder achieved a remarkable 2nd place ranking across VA for the total number of robotic colorectal surgeries. Since arriving at VASNHS from University Medical Center more than one year ago, Dr. Browder has become a pivotal member of the surgery team, and instrumental in expanding VASNHS’ capacity for robotic surgeries.
“Dr. Browder’s success as a leader in robotic colorectal surgery is a testament to her commitment to providing exceptional care, particularly in complex colorectal procedures,” said Dr. Julian Losanoff, VASNHS Chief of Surgery. “Her reputation for high-quality outcomes, including surgical volume, patient satisfaction, and low complication rates, continues to make her a role model within both the VA and broader medical community.”
Dr. Browder was the first colorectal surgeon in the state of Nevada to perform a robotic surgery in 2009, and has helped to train many surgeons who now practice the procedure in hospitals across the country. As one of only 3 colorectal surgeons performing robotic surgeries in Southern Nevada, she has performed over one thousand in her career.
“Since joining VASNHS in 2023, many of the colorectal cases that would have been sent out to the community are being treated by our team here,” said Dr. Browder. “I’m proud of the growth I’ve seen with our roster of surgeons using robotic technology, and I think we’re going to see the number of procedures done each year continue to increase.”
A Growing Future for Robotic Surgery at VASNHS
The VA Southern Nevada Healthcare System is continuing to lead the way in robotic surgery, and its achievements are a direct result of the hard work and dedication of the healthcare professionals involved. To expand its capabilities with robotic surgeries, VASNHS has debuted a second daVinci Xi robotic surgery device in 2025.
“I can get anything I need for my patients here,” said Dr. Browder. “I’ve found that if I have my Veterans interests at heart, VA will make sure we get them what they need. It isn’t always that easy in the private sector.
VASNHS was also recognized for growth in robotic surgeries in other specialty areas. The Gynecology team earned an impressive 2nd place ranking across the VA system for the total number of robotic gynecological surgeries performed, and there has been growth in robotic procedures in Urology as well.