Fort Duncan Regional Medical Center Performs First Robotic-Assisted Surgery
By Jose G. Landa, Copyright 2026 Eagle Pass Business Journal, Inc
Fort Duncan Regional Medical Center reached a major milestone Monday, September 14, 2026 after completing its first robotically assisted surgical procedure using the hospital’s new da Vinci Xi surgical system.
Dr. Samantha Bernal led the surgical team that successfully performed the procedure, marking the beginning of a new era in surgical care for Eagle Pass, Maverick County and surrounding communities.
Hospital officials recognized the dedication of the surgical team and expressed their appreciation to Jade, the first patient to undergo a robotic-assisted procedure at the facility, for becoming part of the historic moment.
The successful surgery followed months of preparation and collaboration between Fort Duncan Regional Medical Center and the Maverick County Hospital District to bring the advanced surgical program to the community.
Fort Duncan Regional Medical Center CEO Eladio Montalvo and Maverick County Hospital District CEO Nestor Bonilla previously announced that the two healthcare organizations were working together to expand access to robotic-assisted surgery locally.
The program is expected to support procedures that may include gallbladder surgery, hernia repair, complex general surgery and other operations that can benefit from minimally invasive techniques.
The da Vinci Xi system provides surgeons with a highly magnified three-dimensional view of the surgical area and instruments capable of making precise movements through smaller incisions.
Depending on the procedure and the patient’s medical condition, robotic-assisted surgery may offer benefits that include reduced blood loss, less postoperative pain, shorter hospital stays and faster recovery times.
Physicians determine the most appropriate surgical approach based on each patient’s individual medical needs.
The introduction of the technology represents a significant expansion of the medical services available in Maverick County.
Local patients have often faced traveling to San Antonio or other larger cities for specialized treatment and certain surgical procedures. Bringing additional surgical capabilities to Eagle Pass could allow more residents to receive advanced care near their families, physicians and support networks while reducing the expense and inconvenience associated with traveling outside the community.
The milestone also demonstrated the growing cooperation between Fort Duncan Regional Medical Center and the Maverick County Hospital District as they work to strengthen healthcare services throughout the region.
Monday’s successful procedure transformed the robotic surgery program from a planned investment into an active medical service available within the community.
Fort Duncan Regional Medical Center stated that the achievement represented more than the arrival of new technology. It reflected the hospital’s continuing commitment to innovation, compassionate service and providing local patients with access to advanced medical care closer to home.
