FMOL Health | Our Lady of the Lake Performs Louisiana’s First Single-Port Transabdominal Colorectal Surgery

February 05, 2026

Baton Rouge, LA - FMOL Health | Our Lady of the Lake has successfully performed Louisiana’s first single-port transabdominal colorectal surgery, marking a major advancement in surgical care for the state. The complex procedure was completed by colorectal surgeon Asif Talukder, MD, at Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center.

The single-port approach is an advanced robotic technique in which surgeons operate through one small incision less than two inches in length, typically at or near the navel, using the da Vinci® Single-Port robotic system, which allows multiple instruments to be controlled through this small incision. This approach reduces trauma to surrounding tissue, minimizes pain and supports shorter recovery times compared to traditional multi-incision surgery.

“Being able to offer this approach reflects the skill and preparation of our teams. It allows us to focus not just on the procedure itself, but on how patients experience surgery and recovery, which is always our priority,” said Dr. Talukder. “Achieving a state first is meaningful, but our true goal is to consistently be the best option for the people who trust us with their care.”

Currently, the single-port platform is approved for colorectal, urology, and select ear, nose and throat (ENT) procedures, with anticipated expansion to additional surgical applications. Because of the training, precision and technology required to perform these procedures, only a limited number of hospitals nationwide currently offer single-port colorectal surgery.

The procedure was performed as part of the advanced capabilities supported by the Our Lady of the Lake Robotic Surgery Institute, which focuses on specialized training and the continued advancement of minimally invasive surgical care. The first single port robotic case in the state was quickly followed by the second, which Dr. Talukder performed the same day.

The milestone reflects FMOL Health’s continued investment in surgical technology, resources, team members, and the commitment to expanding access to advanced, patient-centered care across the southeast region of the country.

“We are committed to caring for people with compassion and excellence, especially when they are facing complex medical decisions,” said Chuck Spicer, President of FMOL Health | Our Lady of the Lake. “Ensuring clinicians and team members have the expertise and tools they need allows us to serve patients with confidence at every stage of care.”

For more information about advanced colorectal and minimally invasive surgical options at Our Lady of the Lake, visit ololrmc.com.