Dr. Jihad Azar, MD, celebrates surgical milestone at Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center, completing 500th robotic-assisted surgery

Johnstown, PA – Conemaugh Health System is proud to recognize Jihad Azar, MD, obstetrician-gynecologist at Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center, for completing his 500th robotic-assisted surgery, a milestone that underscores his commitment to advancing minimally invasive women's healthcare and expanding access to leading-edge surgical care throughout the region. 

Since introducing robotic-assisted surgery into his practice, Dr. Azar has helped women benefit from minimally invasive procedures that often result in less pain, reduced blood loss, smaller incisions, shorter hospital stays, and faster recoveries compared to traditional open surgery. Using robotic-assisted technology, he treats a wide range of gynecologic conditions with exceptional precision while delivering compassionate, patient-centered care. 

"Reaching 500 robotic-assisted surgeries is a milestone I'm incredibly proud of because it represents 500 women who entrusted us with their care," said Dr. Azar. "Every patient deserves access to the most advanced treatment options available, and robotic-assisted surgery allows us to provide exceptional care while helping many women recover more comfortably and return to their families and daily lives sooner. This achievement would not have been possible without the outstanding support of our operating room team, nurses, anesthesia providers, and everyone involved in caring for our patients." 

The milestone also reflects Conemaugh Health System's continued investment in advanced surgical technology and highly specialized physicians dedicated to delivering exceptional care close to home. 

"Dr. Azar's achievement is a testament to both his clinical excellence and his unwavering commitment to improving the lives of women throughout our community," said Elizabeth Dunmore, MD, Chief Medical Officer for Conemaugh Health System. "Completing 500 robotic-assisted surgeries demonstrates not only remarkable surgical expertise, but also our health system's commitment to providing patients with innovative, minimally invasive treatment options that lead to better outcomes, quicker recoveries, and a higher quality of life." 

Robotic-assisted surgery has become an increasingly important option for women requiring treatment for complex gynecologic conditions. The technology gives surgeons enhanced visualization, greater dexterity, and improved precision, allowing many procedures to be performed through small incisions while minimizing the physical impact of surgery. 

"As we continue to expand access to advanced surgical care, milestones like this highlight the difference innovative technology and experienced surgeons can make for patients," said Dr. Dunmore. "We're proud to celebrate Dr. Azar and the entire surgical team whose expertise makes these exceptional outcomes possible." 

Conemaugh Health System remains committed to providing comprehensive, compassionate women's healthcare at every stage of life. By combining experienced specialists with state-of-the-art technology, Conemaugh continues to bring advanced gynecologic care to west-central Pennsylvania, allowing patients to receive nationally recognized care without leaving their community. 

To learn more about robotic-assisted gynecologic surgery and women's health services at Conemaugh Health System, visit Conemaugh.org/Gynecological-Surgery.