While working on the current UCSF Medical Center ad campaign, I got an early morning call from Dr. Peter Carroll’s office. They asked if I would be interested in photographing an actual live surgery that day. The surgery was going to be performed with the latest in robotic technology “The da Vinci” surgical system.
This would be my first experience to be present during a live surgery. I got all the proper training, such as how to faint and not to step onto the blue circle on the floor of the OR. It was great to witness the teamwork and efficiency of the surgical team. I always remember the expression of “The Healing Touch” “small soft surgical hands”, but with the use of this robot, the surgeon is actually off in the corner of the room performing the very important procedure. The surgeon never touches the patient, yet it is still very evident of his skill and intellect as to how he performs the surgery.
This photo shows Dr Carroll turning around to communicate with his team as they view a high-resolution monitor of the anatomy being treated.
I finally got to play a doctor.