Surgeries & Expertise

A ventral hernia occurs when tissue or intestine pushes through a weak spot in the abdominal wall, often at the site of a previous surgical incision. This can cause a noticeable bulge, discomfort, or pain, especially when lifting or straining.

In a robotic ventral hernia repair using the da Vinci 5 system, Dr. Bassante uses high-definition 3D vision and precise instrument control. Small incisions are made, and the hernia is repaired by returning the tissue to its proper place and reinforcing the abdominal wall with mesh when appropriate. The robotic approach typically allows for less post-operative pain, smaller scars, and a faster return to normal activities compared with traditional open surgery.

Most patients go home the same day or after a short observation period. Recovery instructions and activity restrictions will be reviewed with you in detail before and after the operation.

An inguinal hernia is a common condition in which tissue or part of the intestine protrudes through a weak area in the lower abdominal wall or groin. It may appear as a bulge that becomes more noticeable when standing, coughing, or lifting, and can cause aching or a heavy sensation.

Robotic inguinal hernia repair is performed through several small incisions using the da Vinci 5 platform. The robot allows Dr. Bassante to carefully place mesh behind the muscle layer with excellent visualization and precision. This technique often results in less post-operative pain and a quicker recovery than traditional open hernia surgery.

Many patients are able to return home the same day. Light activity is usually resumed within a few days, with full recovery guided by your surgeon’s specific instructions.

A hiatal hernia occurs when part of the stomach slides upward into the chest through the opening in the diaphragm. This can contribute to gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), causing heartburn, regurgitation, chest discomfort, or difficulty swallowing that does not respond well to medication alone.

During robotic hiatal hernia repair (often combined with an anti-reflux procedure), Dr. Bassante uses the da Vinci 5 system to return the stomach to its normal position, tighten the diaphragmatic opening, and create a new valve mechanism that helps prevent acid from rising into the esophagus. The robotic approach offers enhanced visualization and precise suturing.

Patients typically spend one or more nights in the hospital. Dietary progression and activity guidelines are carefully explained so you can recover comfortably and achieve lasting relief from reflux symptoms.

The gallbladder stores bile that helps digest fats. When gallstones form or the gallbladder becomes inflamed, patients often experience pain in the upper right abdomen, nausea, or intolerance to fatty foods. Removal of the gallbladder is a common and highly effective treatment.

In a robotic cholecystectomy, Dr. Bassante removes the gallbladder through small incisions using the da Vinci 5 system’s high-definition view and fine instrument control. This approach can be especially helpful in more complex cases. Most patients experience less post-operative discomfort and return to normal diet and activity more quickly than with open surgery.

The majority of patients go home the same day or after an overnight stay. You will receive clear instructions about diet, activity, and warning signs to watch for during recovery.

Colon resection involves removing a diseased portion of the large intestine and reconnecting the healthy ends. It may be recommended for conditions such as colon cancer, diverticulitis, large polyps that cannot be removed endoscopically, or other structural problems.

Using the da Vinci 5 robotic platform, Dr. Bassante can perform the resection with enhanced precision, better visualization of important structures, and the ability to work in tight spaces. Robotic colon surgery is often associated with smaller incisions, less blood loss, reduced pain, and a shorter hospital stay compared with traditional open surgery. Enhanced recovery protocols are frequently used.

Most patients typically go home between 3 and 5 days after the operation thanks to our enhanced recovery program. A detailed plan for nutrition, activity, and follow-up care will be provided.

Breast surgery encompasses a range of procedures performed for both benign and malignant conditions. These may include biopsy of a suspicious area, removal of a breast lump (lumpectomy), or more extensive operations when cancer is present. The specific procedure is always tailored to the individual diagnosis, imaging findings, and patient preferences.

Dr. Bassante approaches breast surgery with careful attention to both complete removal of disease (when needed) and cosmetic outcome. He works collaboratively with radiologists, oncologists, and other specialists to ensure coordinated care.

Before any breast procedure you will have a thorough consultation to review imaging, pathology, surgical options, and what recovery will look like.

The thyroid gland sits in the front of the neck and regulates metabolism. Surgery may be recommended for nodules that are suspicious for cancer, large goiters that cause compressive symptoms, or certain cases of hyperthyroidism that do not respond to medical treatment.

Thyroidectomy is performed through a carefully planned incision in a natural skin crease of the neck. Dr. Bassante takes special care to protect the nearby nerves that control the voice and the parathyroid glands that regulate calcium.

Most patients spend one night in the hospital for observation. Voice changes, calcium levels, and wound healing are monitored closely.

EGD is a procedure in which a thin, flexible camera is gently passed through the mouth to examine the esophagus, stomach, and first part of the small intestine. It is used to evaluate symptoms such as difficulty swallowing, persistent heartburn, unexplained anemia, or upper abdominal pain, and to take biopsies or treat certain conditions.

Colonoscopy uses a similar flexible camera inserted through the rectum to examine the entire large intestine. It is the most effective way to screen for colorectal cancer, remove polyps before they become cancerous, and investigate symptoms such as rectal bleeding or change in bowel habits.

Because Dr. Bassante performs his own endoscopies, he can often reach a diagnosis and plan treatment more quickly. This dual expertise also gives him valuable insight when surgery is later needed—for example, evaluating peptic ulcer disease, distinguishing biliary colic, or understanding the exact location and characteristics of a colon lesion he may later resect.

Both procedures are performed under sedation so that you remain comfortable. Detailed preparation instructions and post-procedure guidelines will be provided well in advance.

In addition to the major robotic and endoscopic procedures listed above, Dr. Bassante also performs a wide range of common general surgery procedures, including:

• Lipoma removal
• Skin cancer resection and excision of skin lesions
• Removal of sebaceous cysts
• Port placement for chemotherapy
• Other soft-tissue and minor surgical procedures

These “bread-and-butter” procedures are performed with the same attention to detail, patient comfort, and clear communication that characterize all of Dr. Bassante’s surgical care. Many can be done on an outpatient basis.