Conemaugh Physician Performs 500th Robotic-Assisted Surgery

“I am honored to have reached this significant milestone in my career,” said Dr. Duke. “Surrounded by a great team with brilliant minds, I am grateful to continue to provide our patients with the most advanced, minimally invasive options resulting in faster recovery and better overall outcomes.”

Fellowship-trained in laparoscopic bariatric surgery, Dr. Duke has become a trailblazer for robotic-assisted surgery at Conemaugh, using the technology for procedures including gastric bypass, sleeve gastrectomy, revisional bariatric surgery, inguinal hernia repair, umbilical hernia repair, ventral hernia repair, incisional hernia repair, fundoplication surgery, and gallbladder surgery.

Typically associated with minimally invasive surgery, robotic surgery procedures are performed through small incisions. “The da Vinci robot allows surgeons to perform complex operations with more precision, flexibility, and control than is possible with conventional techniques,” explained Dr. Duke. “The robot translates the surgeon’s hand motions into smaller, more precise movements.”

At Conemaugh, robotic-assisted surgery is offered for general, gynecological, and urology surgeries.

“We are immensely proud of Dr. Duke’s achievements and the positive impact she continues to make in the lives of our patients,” said Elizabeth Dunmore, Chief Medical Officer. “This milestone alone exemplifies her outstanding efforts to continuously provide the highest quality treatment and care for patients.”

Dr. Duke is board-certified in general surgery, specializes in bariatric surgery, and serves as Director of Bariatric Surgery at Memorial Medical Center. She earned her medical doctorate from Temple University School of Medicine and completed her residency at Boston University before returning to Johnstown. She is a fellow of the American College of Surgeons and completed a fellowship in laparoscopic bariatric surgery at UPMC.

“I am grateful for the support of my colleagues and the exceptional medical team at Conemaugh. I am looking forward to the next 500!” said Dr. Duke.

Pictured above working around the table from right to left beginning with Dr. Duke (front in black and white cap) Dr. D'Arcy Duke, Courtney Baeckel, Chris O'Stafy, Shane Lloyd, Tracy Dodson, Brenna Gordon, Richelle Rose, and Nick Ferragonio.