Robotic Surgeons

By Virginia Prescott on Wednesday, July 2, 2008.
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For about 40 years, the sternotomy has been the gold standard for open heart surgery. Chest bones are split and patients' ribs are stretched open to allow access to the chest cavity.

The practice is still widely used, but many doctors are looking for less traumatic methods. A few surgeons in the nation are using some nimble-fingered robots to help repair hearts.

But as NHPR's Dianne Finch reports, not all surgeons are on board with the idea.

Web Extra: Robotic Surgery Slideshow

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Word of Mouth is all about what's new. Online and on-air, the show looks at our fascinating and ever-changing world, and puts the latest ideas under a microscope. Word of Mouth investigates everything from science and technology, to health and the environment, to new trends in popular culture. The show airs Monday through Thursday at noon and is hosted by Virginia Prescott.

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