Last week SMUS welcomed back Dr. Jeff McCracken '93, a distinguished alum and Chief Urologist for Island Health, to share his expertise on the cutting-edge da Vinci surgical robot with Engineering and Design 10 students. His visit not only provided a hands-on learning opportunity but also showcased how the skills and values nurtured at SMUS can lead to extraordinary careers in fields like medicine and technology.
McCracken, who played a pivotal role in introducing the da Vinci surgical robot to Vancouver Island, spoke passionately about the evolution of surgical techniques and the transformative impact of robotics in medicine. He explained how the robot allows surgeons to perform complex procedures with greater precision, smaller incisions, and faster patient recovery times.
“The da Vinci robot bridges the gap between traditional surgery and modern technology,” McCracken told students. “It enables us to perform surgeries with incredible precision, reducing pain and recovery time for patients.”
During his presentation, McCracken walked students through the history of surgery, from the early days of ether anesthesia to the advent of laparoscopic techniques and, finally, the revolutionary da Vinci robot. He highlighted how the robot’s advanced capabilities, such as wrist-like instruments and 3D visualization, allow surgeons to perform intricate procedures with unparalleled accuracy.
Quite the Coincidence: Two SMUS Alumni Reunite
Dr. David Jiang '04, Portland-based urologist, had travelled to Victoria earlier in the week to assist McCracken with da Vinci training. The two had never met before, and it was only during a casual conversation that they discovered their shared SMUS roots.
“I asked him where he went to high school, and he said, ‘St. Michaels University School,’” McCracken recalled with a laugh. “I couldn’t believe it—what are the odds? It’s such a small world!”
Jiang, who specializes in single-port robotic surgery, joined the presentation to share his own experiences with the da Vinci system.
“It’s amazing to see how far technology has come,” Jiang said. “And it’s even more amazing to be back at SMUS, where it all started for both of us.”
The unexpected reunion was a delightful surprise for everyone in the room, underscoring the enduring connections forged at SMUS and the far-reaching impact of its alumni network.
Students were captivated as McCracken demonstrated the robot’s instruments, explaining how they mimic the movements of a surgeon’s hands with remarkable dexterity. He passed around surgical tools, allowing students to see firsthand how the robot’s cables and pulleys enable precise movements.
“It’s like playing a video game, but with real-life consequences,” Jiang added, describing the console where surgeons control the robot. “Every movement matters, and the technology allows us to perform surgeries that were once unimaginable.”
The presentation also touched on the future of surgical robotics, including the next-generation da Vinci 5, which features tactile feedback and enhanced ergonomics. McCracken emphasized the importance of continuous innovation in medicine and the role of AI in improving surgical outcomes.
Student Curiosity Shines Through
The session was interactive, with students eagerly asking questions to deepen their understanding. One student asked, “What happens if the camera gets covered or something and you can’t see?”
“That scenario, known as ‘red out,’ can occur if bleeding obstructs the camera’s view,” said McCracken. “In such cases, a surgical assistant quickly cleans the camera to restore visibility, ensuring the procedure can continue smoothly.”
Another student inquired, “Do patients ever prefer traditional surgery over robotic surgery?”
McCracken said that while some patients may have initial reservations, most are reassured once they understand that the robot is an extension of the surgeon’s skills, not an autonomous decision-maker.
“The benefits—smaller incisions, less pain, and faster recovery—often make robotic surgery the preferred choice,” he said.
A particularly insightful question came from a student curious about the training required to use the da Vinci robot. “How do surgeons learn to use this technology, and how has it changed medical training?”
“Surgeons now undergo rigorous simulation-based training, including virtual surgeries and practice on animal models, to master the robot’s controls,” said McCracken. He said this shift has revolutionized surgical education, allowing trainees to gain experience in a risk-free environment before operating on patients.
McCracken’s visit was more than just a lesson in surgical robotics—it was a testament to the enduring impact of an SMUS education. Reflecting on his time at the school, he credited SMUS for fostering his curiosity, critical thinking, and passion for learning, which ultimately led him to a career in medicine.
“The skills I developed at SMUS—problem-solving, collaboration, and a commitment to excellence—have been invaluable in my career,” he said. “This school prepares students not just for university, but for life.”
