A new surgical era is underway at PAHT following the introduction of a state-of-the-art surgical robot.
The advanced robotically assisted surgical tool, called the Da Vinci Xi, made its debut to perform the first gynaecological surgery on Tuesday 21 May.
Dr Fay Gilder, medical director at PAHT, said: “We are delighted that robotic assisted surgery has arrived at PAHT to revolutionise patient care and experiences. The cutting-edge technology marks a significant advancement in the provision of specialist surgical care for the people and community that we serve.
“Our highly-skilled surgeons, who have received extensive training on how to use the surgical robot, sit at a console to control the robotic arms in the same way they would when carrying out open or laparoscopic surgery or conventional surgical methods – at no risk to the patient. The difference is that the robot has four arms which carry the camera and surgical instruments.”
Ms Vardhini Vijay, consultant colorectal surgeon and clinical lead for the robotics steering group, said: “Robotic surgery allows surgeons to perform many types of procedures with more precision, flexibility and control than is possible with traditional methods. The robotic system also allows for better 3D visualisation, giving surgeons the ability to perform delicate and complex procedures that may be difficult or impossible with other methods.
“Lengthy surgical procedures when performed through open surgery or traditional methods can also be physically demanding for the surgeons. With robotic surgery, longer and more complex surgery can be performed with less discomfort.
“The Da Vinci system has more than 20 years of patient outcome data with benefits including reduced complications, reduced requirement for intensive care stay, reduced blood loss and reduced length of hospital stay.”
Mr Ajay Sooknah, operations lead for the robotics steering group, said: “The successful delivery of robotic surgery has been a multidisciplinary effort over the last 18 months with input from the sterile services team, IT department, theatres and clinicians. We are excited to offer this innovative surgical technique for general, colorectal and gynaecology patients, with the aim of introducing other specialities.”
Ms Jyothi Rachna, clinical director for obstetrics and gynaecology, said: “I am excited to be performing the first robotic assisted case at PAHT. This technology will be of great benefit to our hysterectomy patients with decreased blood loss and reduced length of stay.”
Mr Adam Hussein, clinical lead for colorectal cancer, said: “Robotic surgery will be a significant benefit for colorectal cancer resections as it facilitates precision oncological surgery and provides enhanced views deep in the pelvis.”
