When most people think about advanced robotic surgery, they imagine traveling to a major academic medical center in a large city. But today, some of the nation’s most sophisticated surgical care is available right here in the Lowcountry.
Novant Health Coastal Carolina Medical Center has become the first hospital in South Carolina to earn designation as a Center of Excellence in Robotic Surgery from the Surgical Review Corporation (SRC), an internationally recognized organization that evaluates hospitals for surgical quality, patient safety and clinical outcomes.
While the distinction was awarded in 2025, it reflects more than a decade of innovation and experience. The hospital launched its robotic surgery program more than 11 years ago and has since performed more than 5,000 robotic-assisted procedures, helping establish Coastal Carolina Medical Center as a regional leader in advanced surgical care.
While the designation is a significant achievement for the hospital, its greatest impact is on the patients and families who call the Lowcountry home.
Dr. Steven Thies is one of several skilled robotic surgeons at Coastal Carolina Medical Center.
“This designation reinforces what many patients throughout the Lowcountry already know – that they can receive exceptional surgical care right here in their own community,” said Matthew Conrad, president of Novant Health Coastal Carolina Medical Center. “As our region continues to grow, we’re committed to investing in advanced technology, talented clinical teams, and innovative care that gives patients access to nationally recognized treatment without leaving the Lowcountry.”
Robotic-assisted surgery has transformed the way many procedures are performed. Using advanced technology, surgeons can operate with enhanced precision through smaller incisions, often resulting in less pain, reduced blood loss, shorter hospital stays and faster recoveries. For many patients, those benefits can make a meaningful difference in their overall healthcare experience. While every patient’s experience is unique, the goal remains the same: delivering safe, effective care with the best possible outcomes.
At Coastal Carolina Medical Center, robotic technology is used across multiple specialties, including general surgery, gynecology, orthopedics, and urology. The hospital’s surgical program features leading-edge robotic platforms, including da Vinci, Mako, and Aquablation technologies.
For physicians like Dr. Eric Gwynn, a robotic surgeon and urologist, the recognition validates years of commitment from an entire team dedicated to delivering exceptional patient care.
Robotic-assisted surgery has transformed the way many procedures are performed. Using advanced technology, surgeons can operate with enhanced precision through smaller incisions, often resulting in less pain, reduced blood loss, shorter hospital stays and faster recoveries.
“Robotic surgery isn’t just about technology,” Gwynn said. “It’s about the people behind it. From the operating room staff to recovery nurses and care teams throughout the hospital, everyone plays a role in helping patients achieve the best possible outcomes.”
The designation follows a rigorous multi-year review process evaluating details from surgical volumes and patient outcomes to safety protocols, education, and quality improvement initiatives. Not every hospital that pursues accreditation earns it.
For patients, however, the meaning is simple: Confidence.
Urologist Dr. Eric Gwynn is a leader in robotic surgery at Coastal Carolina Medical Center.
“This recognition tells patients that they’re receiving care from a team committed to the highest standards,” said Dr. Carlos Montenegro, robotic and general surgeon. “It’s reassurance that they’re in capable hands and receiving care that meets some of the most respected benchmarks in surgery.”
Novant Health is helping redefine health care across the Carolinas through a connected network of nearly 900 care locations, including 19 hospitals, hundreds of physician clinics and urgent care centers, outpatient facilities, imaging services, and pharmacies.
The designation also highlights the growing role health care plays in supporting one of South Carolina’s fastest-growing regions. As more families, retirees, and working professionals choose to call the Lowcountry home, access to advanced medical services has become increasingly important. Hospital leaders say investments in robotic surgery and other specialized services help ensure residents can receive high-quality care locally, while also attracting skilled physicians and healthcare professionals to the region.
“Health care is evolving rapidly,” said Dr. Steven Thies, robotic and general surgeon. “Our goal is to continue bringing leading-edge care to this community so patients can benefit from the latest advancements while staying close to home.”
For Lowcountry residents facing surgery, that’s welcome news: world-class care is no longer something you have to travel to find. It’s already here.
Coastal Carolina Medical Center surgical team proudly stands with new Center of Excellence award in Robotic Surgery.
About Novant Health
Novant Health is helping redefine health care across the Carolinas through a connected network of nearly 900 care locations, including 19 hospitals, hundreds of physician clinics and urgent care centers, outpatient facilities, imaging services, and pharmacies. With a focus on making care more accessible, coordinated and personalized, Novant Health serves communities throughout North Carolina and South Carolina with a commitment to quality, innovation and compassion.
Backed by more than 41,000 team members and 8,600 independent and employed clinicians, Novant Health continues to advance healthcare through leading-edge research, clinical trials, virtual care options, and new models of care designed to meet patients where they are. In 2024 alone, the organization invested more than $1.6 billion in community benefit programs, financial assistance, and services that support healthier communities.
To learn more information, please visit NovantHealth.org.