Banner Health has become one of a limited number of health systems in the United States trained in advanced robotic surgical techniques that utilize a single incision rather than multiple cuts. The health system reports that this approach can lead to faster recovery times and less pain for patients.
The organization has two surgeons trained in these newly approved robotic procedures. Fewer than 35 surgeons nationwide have received this training. These two individuals are the only breast and general surgeons in Arizona selected for the advanced training, which the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved for general surgery and breast procedures in 2025.
Brittany Murphy, a surgical oncologist at Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center, is one of just 13 breast oncologists nationally trained to perform the advanced single port robotic assisted nipple-sparing mastectomy. The procedure uses minimal incisions that are often hidden within the axillary fold, delivering reduced scarring and faster healing.
"I am honored to bring this groundbreaking surgical advancement to Arizona and to play a role in giving our breast cancer patients a greater quality of life," Murphy said. "From the significant advantages of improved scar concealment to superior nerve preservation, this minimally invasive option delivers select patients faster recovery times, reduced pain, and improved breast reconstructive outcomes."
Jennifer Preston, general surgery residency program director at Banner – University Medical Center Phoenix, is the only general surgeon in Arizona and one of 20 nationally trained in inguinal hernia and cholecystectomy procedures using the single incision robotic technique. These procedures traditionally require three to four incisions but can now be completed through a single cut.
"What excites me most about this technology is how it expands what I can offer patients through minimally invasive surgery," Preston said. "Historically, hernia repairs and gallbladder removals required either multiple small incisions or a single larger incision."
The single port system was previously only approved for certain ENT, urology, thoracic and colorectal-related procedures. With the training of Murphy and Preston, Banner Health has positioned itself as a national leader in advanced robotic procedures across multiple specialties.
