On Dec. 3, Dr. Rafael Quinones and Bartow Regional Medical Center performed the first da Vinci robotically-assisted single-site gallbladder removal in Polk, Hardee, and Highlands counties.

“Our commitment to deliver cutting edge technology to our community is evidenced by Dr. Quinones being the first to deliver single incision gallbladder removal with the da Vinci surgical system,” said Troy DeDecker, hospital CEO.