Robotic-assisted surgery is developing quickly at Southmead Hospital. The large surgical team has achieved a remarkable milestone of 10,000 procedures on robotic arms. These highly precise, expensive machines are wrapped in plastic sheeting. To that end, they are revolutionising the operating theatre by allowing surgeons to introduce greater dexterity and precision to complex surgeries. With a focus on improving patient outcomes, NHS England plans to implement robotic arms in half a million procedures over the next decade.
The introduction of robotic arms into operating theatres has been a key evolution in complex surgical procedures. These machines allow surgeons to perform delicate and minimally invasive procedures, like hysterectomies and bladder surgeries. Providers are increasingly adopting robotic technology to cut waiting times by as much as 90%. They pledge to deliver on this goal by 2029.
Ms Caroline Burt, a consultant colorectal surgeon at Southmead Hospital, explains the importance of the robotic arms. They play a critical role in addressing the growing problem of long wait times for patients.
“Robotic arms are a huge part in the challenge to shorten waiting times,” – Caroline Burt.
Burt explains that it’s these machines that make her work possible, putting the “much more easily” back into quilting that once took years using traditional machines. The robotic equipment can be tailored to the specific demands of various procedures. This unique customization allows them to tailor the surgical experience for each doctor and patient.
Patient Lisa Brittain, who had keyhole surgery at Southmead Hospital with the help of robotic arms. As you can see in the video, she was excited to engage with technology – having even conceptualized pictures of R2-D2 from Star Wars prior to her procedure. This imaginative connection is another example of how technology can be used to make complex surgical procedures more relatable to patients.
In surgeries, medical practitioners stay in close proximity to the patient, with two qualified specialists standing beside the patient surgical table to aid at a moment’s notice. Burt likes to remind patients that no matter how fancy the technology is, an operation is still done by a human surgeon.
“It’s 100% the surgeon doing the operation. Nothing moves without the main surgeon moving and dissecting, so there’s no automatic movements in it at all,” – Caroline Burt.
Robotic arms increase the throughput of procedures conducted. In addition, they result in fewer surgical complications, faster recovery time, and reduced length of stay for patients.
Sir Jim Mackey, NHS England’s Chief Executive, is clear that we are determined to use every available pound to provide the best possible care to patients.
“We are using every tool at our disposal to ensure patients get the best possible treatment,” – Sir Jim Mackey.
Robotic surgery is changing at an accelerating pace. It holds the potential to continue to make medical treatment deeper, more personalized, more efficient and more effective across the healthcare ecosystem.