WinnMed is proud to announce a major investment in the future of surgical care with the acquisition of a da Vinci 5 Robotic Surgical System, state-of-the-art technology that will bring advanced, minimally invasive procedures to patients in northeast Iowa, southeast Minnesota and surrounding communities. This newest model of the da Vinci system is just the second in Iowa, following University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics.
The da Vinci system is widely regarded as the gold standard in robotic-assisted surgery. It allows surgeons to perform complex procedures with enhanced precision, flexibility, and control through small incisions, resulting in less pain, reduced blood loss, shorter hospital stays, and faster recovery times for patients.
“This is a significant step forward for WinnMed and the communities we serve,” said Steve Slessor, chief administrative officer, WinnMed. “The da Vinci robot represents a transformative investment in surgical care, and we are excited to bring this level of innovation to the northeast Iowa region.”
The system is housed in one of WinnMed’s newly constructed operating rooms, specifically designed to accommodate robotic technology through the Transforming Tomorrow renovation and expansion project.
Surgeons from all the Decorah medical practices will use the robot to perform certain surgeries at WinnMed. In 2025, general surgeons Erik Brink, D.O., with WinnMed, Caroline Schwickerath, D.O., with Mayo Clinic Health System, and Chris Winters, M.D., with Emplify Health by Gundersen will begin robotic surgery, with additional surgeons utilizing the technology in 2026.
Dr. Brink shares, “Robotic-assisted surgery allows us to perform procedures with greater accuracy and less trauma to the body. For patients, this means quicker recovery times and fewer complications. I’m thrilled to bring this level of care to our community and to be part of WinnMed’s commitment to innovation.” Dr. Brink was introduced to da Vinci technology in 2009 during his medical education and residency and then, following his service in the United States Navy, reengaged with the system. He has been providing robotic surgery since 2023 and was instrumental in bringing the technology to WinnMed in Decorah when he joined the medical practice in spring of 2025.
Dr. Winters, M.D., says, “I am more than excited to offer modern robotic-assisted procedures to my patients in northeast Iowa. Robotic-assisted surgery allows for complex procedures to be performed precisely through small incisions allowing patients an opportunity for a better outcome, faster recovery, and less discomfort.”
The da Vinci 5 system supports a wide range of procedures, including hernia repairs, gallbladder removal, colorectal procedures, and treatment for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). It may also be used in urologic and gynecologic surgeries, depending on patient needs and future service expansion.
