Robert Poston, MD, nationally known for his work in the use of robotics for minimally invasive cardiac surgery, joined the department of cardiovascular surgery at St. Francis Medical Center. He received his medical degree at Johns Hopkins University Medical School and completed his research fellowship in cardiothoracic surgery at Stanford University School of Medicine and his clinical cardiothoracic residency at the University of Pittsburgh. Prior to joining St. Francis, Dr. Poston was chief of the department of cardiothoracic surgery and a professor at the University of Arizona College of Medicine.
Dr. Poston is one of only a handful of cardiac surgeons in the nation to offer robot-assisted minimally invasive coronary bypass surgery. This procedure doesn’t require the more conventional splitting of the sternum and results in less pain and blood loss, a shorter hospital stay, fewer complications, and faster return to normal activities. Dr. Poston plans to use the da Vinci Surgical Robot to perform procedures at St. Francis.
Describe your morning routine.
At work by 6 a.m., then first review the electronic records of the inpatients and pre-op patients scheduled for surgery. Afterward, round on the patients before being at the OR by 7:30 a.m.
What’s your favorite part of your job and why?
Performing a complicated surgical procedure with a well-trained team that makes it look easy. This is where all the less glamorous training, team development, and preparation pays off.
How do you wind down at the end of a busy day or week?
I love to watch movies that inspire me to work harder and think bigger.
What’s a perfect day?
Being with a group of people accomplishing tasks far more challenging than they ever would be able to as individuals simply because they’re all rowing the boat in the same direction.
What’s your biggest pet peeve?
People that jump to conclusions without concern for obtaining other important parts of the story.
What leisure activities occupy your time away from the office?
I have no leisure activities after becoming a parent. Instead, I attend the leisure activities of my kids (basketball, track, band concerts).
Most people don’t know that I …
Wanted to be a pro baseball player (and was pretty close). Heart surgeon was my backup career.
If you could learn any skill, what would it be?
Become better at emotional intelligence.
If you could start over, what profession would you pursue?
I would still be a heart surgeon but would start my career utilizing the (technical, medical, interpersonal, political, leadership) lessons learned that I know now.
What is the most valuable lesson you have learned?
If you measure it, you can improve it.
Describe the characteristics of successful professionals in your industry.
They are intensely passionate about their craft yet humble enough to have deep personal connections with patients and gain the trust of hospital staff.
