Conemaugh Health System Celebrates 100 Robotic-Assisted Surgeries Performed by Colorectal Surgeon Dr. Karleigh Curfman

Conemaugh Health System is proud to recognize a major surgical milestone: 100 robotic-assisted procedures performed by Dr. Karleigh Curfman, the region’s only fellowship-trained colorectal surgeon performing robotic surgery.

“Performing 100 robotic surgeries over the past three years is an incredible achievement,” said Dr. Curfman. “But the true reward lies in how those patients have recovered faster, with fewer complications, and returned to their lives more quickly thanks to this technology.”

Dr. Curfman specializes in treating complex colorectal conditions, including colorectal cancer, diverticulitis, inflammatory bowel disease, rectal prolapse, pelvic floor disorders, and more. By using robotic-assisted techniques, she can perform highly-precise, minimally invasive procedures that result in smaller incisions, less blood loss, reduced post-operative pain, and shorter hospital stays.

“Robotic-assisted surgery allows me to operate in tight spaces with greater precision and control,” said Dr. Curfman. “For patients, that means a faster return home, improved outcomes, and a better quality of life.”

Conemaugh Health System has invested in three surgical robots and continues to expand access to robotic-assisted procedures across its campuses. The health system’s surgical program has rapidly grown in both volume and expertise, thanks in large part to the dedication of its surgical teams and the leadership of providers like Dr. Curfman.

As a Johnstown-trained physician who completed her general surgery residency at Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center, Dr. Curfman returned to the region following advanced fellowships in minimally invasive and colorectal surgery in Washington and Louisiana. Her advanced training significantly broadened Conemaugh’s ability to treat complex colorectal conditions close to home.

“The success of our robotic program is a team effort,” Dr. Curfman noted. “From our nurses and anesthesiologists to our surgical techs and support staff, everyone has played a role in advancing this program and helping our patients recover faster and more comfortably.”

As the demand for robotic-assisted procedures continues to grow, Dr. Curfman says patients increasingly seek hospitals that offer this technology. “It’s no longer just a nice-to-have,” she said. “Patients expect it, and they deserve it. Robotic surgery is transforming how we care for our communities.”