Kootenai | Kootenai Health | Issue 3, 2019

KH . ORG 9 Get to know your options. To learn more about robotic surgery at Kootenai Health, visit KH.org/roboticsurgery . Aminimally invasive approach “I had a few choices of surgeons between Spokane and Coeur d’Alene, and chose Dr. Burnett because I saw he offered robotic surgery,” Mary said. “I wanted to see someone that could do regular and robotic surgery; I wanted a more personalized approach.” Robert Burnett, M.D., is a community cardiothoracic surgeon based in Coeur d’Alene who recently joined Kootenai Heart Clinics. After reviewing Mary’s case, he felt she would be a good candidate for robotic surgery using the da Vinci Surgical System. “Robotic surgery is favored for patients with early-stage cancer,” Dr. Burnett said. “Because robotic surgery is minimally invasive, it is often less scary for patients, there is less pain and it’s associated with shorter hospital stays. Most patients want to talk to a surgeon who can do both traditional and robotic surgery so they can decide what the best option is together.” Dr. Burnett and his team removed the right upper lobe of Mary’s lung. Following surgery, Mary learned that the mass was cancerous and she would require further treatment once she returned home. “Everything went very well. I felt like everything was in my favor going into surgery,” Mary said. “While I was certainly hoping I was cancer-free, I appreciated Dr. Burnett’s respectful and straightforward approach. Both he and the nursing staff were very encouraging.” Welcome, Dr. Burnett! Robert Burnett, M.D., is a long-standing community cardiothoracic surgeon who recently joined Kootenai Heart Clinics. Tell us a little bit about you and your family: My wife and I moved to the area in 2003 to help start up the open-heart surgery program. Anxious to get home and back to her family, Mary worked hard to meet her discharge goals by getting out of bed often and following her pain management plan. Home iswhere theheart is “Mary’s recovery from surgery was great,” Dr. Burnett said. “Her motivation certainly aided in her recovery.” Mary finished her cancer treatment in May and was excited to get back to her normal routine. “Having that support system at home is so important,” she said. “I’m looking forward to having more energy and being able to keep up with my grandchildren again. I’ve worked my entire life to have what I have; they are my reason for getting through this.” Need heart care? To learn more or schedule an appointment, call (208) 625-4120 . Why did you pick your specialty? I chose to specialize in cardiothoracic surgery after completing my general surgery residency. I became really interested in thoracic oncology and cardiac surgery early on. It’s incredibly cool. What drew you to Kootenai Health? I was drawn to the growth and success of Kootenai’s surgical program. What can patients expect when they first meet with you? My patients almost always come with a diagnosis already, seeking treatment. We spend our time talking about their treatment and what to expect during recovery. What are some of your hobbies? Like most people who live here, I am drawn to a lot of outdoor activities. I also enjoy music, refereeing and playing hockey. What is your favorite healthy tip? Exercise. It’s particularly beneficial in patients with known cardiovascular disease. It’s good and helpful for everybody, but it can be lifesaving for those with heart and lung problems.