Dr. John Dietze and Dr. Bruce Hamilton with the Globus system[
Thanks to generous donor support through the Ascension Providence Foundation, patients in Waco now have access to one of the most advanced neurosurgical technologies available today — the Globus Excelsius Robotic Navigation System. This groundbreaking equipment is transforming lives, including that of local construction safety manager Michael Dockens.
For over a year, Michael endured severe lower back pain that mimicked sciatica. His work required frequent climbing and movement, intensifying the pain and affecting his ability to move freely. Michael got temporary relief from injections, but he needed a permanent solution.
That solution came through the expert care of Dr. John Dietze, neurosurgeon at Ascension Providence. After reviewing Michael’s MRI results, Dr. Dietze recommended surgery using the groundbreaking Globus robotic system. Providence is the only hospital in Waco and the first across all of Ascension Texas with this advanced neurosurgical platform. This technology, funded by donor support through Ascension Providence Foundation, allows for minimally invasive procedures with the potential for shorter recovery times and less discomfort for patients.
According to both Dr. Dietze and Michael, the robotic surgery was a complete success. “Michael was able to return to work and normal activity in less than half the time we would have expected with traditional open surgery,” said Dr. Dietze. “This less invasive technique is a game-changer and can help patients get back to their normal lives faster.”
Michael praised Dr. Dietze and the Ascension Providence team for their thorough, personable care and excellent communication about the new procedure. “Their bedside manner was excellent and communication was great from start to finish,” he said. “They made sure I knew what to expect at every step of the way.”
After the procedure, Michael improved quickly, regaining a normal range of motion within a few weeks. He has since returned to work full-time and pain-free.
The Globus Excelsius Robotic Navigation System at Providence expands Providence’s growing fleet of cutting-edge surgical platforms across Ascension Texas. These technologies use smaller surgical incisions and highly-precise movements to improve patient care, reduce recovery time and improve working conditions for surgical associates and physicians.
Because of donors like you, patients like Michael can get back to living — faster, stronger, and with hope restored. Thank you.