Community-wide contest secures a name for Sovah Health – Danville’s new surgical robot

Sovah Health – Danville is pleased to announce that its new surgical robot will now be named "Billy."  A community-wide contest began in May to name the robot and ended in June with nearly 150 entries. 

“We are very excited about the addition of the robotic system to our portfolio of surgical offerings at Sovah Health,” said Steve Heatherly, Market President. “Most importantly, we hope this fun contest allowed the public and our staff to get to know our robotics offerings and further explore their surgical options at Sovah Health.”

Billy was chosen as the name of Sovah Health – Danville’s new surgical robot.  Erica Smith took home the prize of a $100 Amazon gift card and shared, “Billy means “desire to protect,” in hopes that this will enhance a patient’s experience and be safe for them. But more so to honor one of our beloved surgeons, Dr. William Sweezer, whom we lost in 2020. He cared deeply for our patients and staff.”

Sovah Health installed the new surgical robot in late April and has used it to perform 20 surgeries so far.  Located tableside in the operating room, the robot allows a surgeon's hand movements to be scaled, filtered, and translated into precise movements of micro-instruments at the surgical site.  The robot is 100% controlled by the surgeon and it can often offer faster recovery times and fewer complications for patients undergoing surgery. 

To learn more about Robotic-Assisted Surgery at Sovah Health, click here.