August 4, 2025 – HCA Florida Kendall Hospital, a 424-bed facility and part of HCA Florida Healthcare, has performed its first robotic transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion, or TLIF—a major leap forward for its expanding neurospine program. The groundbreaking procedure was powered by the hospital’s newest robotic system, officially making HCA Florida Kendall Hospital home to 13 cutting-edge surgical robots and reinforcing its commitment to delivering world-class neurological and spinal care.
The minimally invasive spine procedure at the L4–L5 level was completed using the hospital’s newest robotic system, designed for both spinal and cranial surgeries. With the newest and most advanced neurosurgical robot of its kind, Kendall continues to set the standard for neurological care, as one of the few hospitals in the region performing these procedures with enabling technology and a steadfast commitment to innovation.
“Robotic technology in neurosurgery is sometimes seen as a fad or gimmick, but its true value goes far beyond a single application,” said Dr. Michael Fromke, who led the procedure. “This advanced robotic platform integrates clinical data, analytics and precision to drive meaningful innovation to more segments of our patient population and improve the overall health of our communities.”
Dr. Fromke has also pioneered the use of this robotic platform in stroke care, successfully employing it to evacuate a cerebral hemorrhage and help a patient achieve rapid recovery.
With its latest advancements, HCA Kendall’s neurosurgical unit has significantly expanded, incorporating cutting-edge technology to improve care for neurological patients. The unit’s growth builds on its designation as a Center of Excellence in Robotic Surgery by the Surgical Review Corporation, earned in 2023. HCA Florida Kendall Hospital’s surgical program is consistently recognized for quality care. Healthgrades honors include America’s 100 Best Hospitals Award (2023–2025), a Top 10% national ranking for spine surgery, and America’s 50 Best Hospitals for Surgical Care designation for 2025.
“HCA Florida Kendall Hospital is the leader in surgical robotics in South Florida, a true hub for innovation and the top destination for robotic procedures in the region,” said Ben Harris, Chief Executive Officer. “These recognitions reflect the strength of our neurosurgical program and our commitment to advancing technology and delivering exceptional care to the communities we serve.”
For more information about neurological care at HCA Florida Kendall Hospital, visit http://www.hcafloridahealthcare.com.
About HCA Florida Kendall Hospital
As a 24/7 acute care facility, HCA Florida Kendall Hospital is one of only two adult Level 1 Trauma Centers in Miami-Dade County verified by the American College of Surgeons. Kendall Hospital boasts a network of over 750 physicians’ specialties. Kendall Hospital is ranked by Healthgrades in the Top 100 Best Hospitals in America for Critical Care, Cardiac Care, Prostate Surgery, Gastroenterology, Spine and Orthopedic Surgery. HCA Florida Kendall Hospital is a part of HCA Florida Healthcare, the leading provider of healthcare in the state of Florida.
About HCA Florida Healthcare
HCA Florida Healthcare, a part of HCA Healthcare, is a family of more than 650 affiliated sites of care, including hospitals, physician practices, freestanding emergency rooms and urgent care centers. As one of the state’s leading healthcare networks, HCA Florida Healthcare’s 11,100 experienced doctors and more than 84,000 colleagues work together to deliver equitable, evidence-based collaborative care through more than 12 million patient encounters annually. HCA Florida Healthcare is committed to improving more lives in more ways and giving back to the communities it serves. In 2024, the network provided more than $1 billion in uncompensated care and contributed more than $3.7 million to community organizations across the state. In addition, HCA Florida Healthcare offers patients access to highly trained specialists, including the state’s most comprehensive cardiovascular network. A strong advocate for the next generation of healthcare professionals, HCA Florida Healthcare is a leader in in training future healthcare professionals, offering 151 Graduate Medical Education (GME) programs at 27 different hospitals with more than 2,400 residents. For more information, please visit HCAFloridaHealthcare.com.
