When Ashley Starr visited with her Endocrinologist, Dinesh Patel, MD., of Phoenix, they discussed the need for a Partial Thyroidectomy. Ashley was referred to Dr. Francisco Rodriguez, MD at Valley Surgical Clinics for surgical evaluation. Ashley didn’t know at that time that she would offered a new approach to an old surgery. Ashley would become the first patient in Arizona to undergo a Robotic Assisted partial thyroidectomy without the typical incision to her neck. Her incision is made under the arm.

On October 13, 2009 Ashley underwent a partial thyroidectomy with the assistance of the da Vinci Robot leaving no scar to her neck. In a recent interview Ms. Starr provided the following comments related to her experience.

“How would you describe your procedure to others that may be considering the new approach to thyroid surgery?”

Response – “Anyone faced with the possibility of a full or partial thyroidectomy should consider this approach. My Neck is “Clear”, and completely lacks any sign of a typical thyroid removal. Not to mention my recovery time was amazing, and allowed me the freedom to return to work within a week of my surgery!”

“Are you happy with your results?”

Response - “Without a doubt! This choice was clear. I can’t praise this new method enough. I would HIGHLY recommend this method to anyone facing this surgery! I will always be grateful to Dr. Rodriguez. I am absolutely happy with my results.


Other patient comments and photos

Kimyacta Gaines – I “Love” the fact that I have no scar on my neck, and I am thrilled with my recovery.






Marisel Pacheco de-Schwitzer – “I had very little discomfort after my surgery”. “I had no limitations or restrictions. I see no draw backs or negatives to having this surgery”. “It was wonderful”. This is my incision just one month after my surgery.




Rosio Gonzales - “I am here today just one week after my surgery and I feel good, I would absolutely recommend this procedure to others.”