First Robotic Bariatric Surgeon in the Christus Health System

Dr. Merriman was the first surgeon in the Christus Health System Network nationally to perform robotic bariatric surgery.

He started these cases in 2019 at Christus Highland hospital in Shreveport, LA. During robotic-assisted surgery, your surgeon makes a few small incisions, then uses a 3DHD camera for a crystal-clear, magnified view of the surgical area.The surgeon sits at a console next to you and operates through the incisions using tiny instruments and the camera. Every hand movement Dr. Merriman makes on the INTUITIVE da Vinci robot system is translated by the da Vinci system in real-time, bending and rotating the instruments so he or she can operate on your digestive system.

A review of published studies suggests potential benefits of bariatric surgery when using da Vinci® technology include: Similar or fewer complications as laparoscopic procedures, similar or reduced length of stay in the hospital as laparoscopic procedures.

Consult with Dr. Merriman to determine if robotic bariatric surgery might be a good choice for you."