Robotic-assisted surgery has reached a monumental milestone at Southmead Hospital, with the achievement of over 10,000 completed procedures. These precision-engineered smart robotic arms, now housed under plastic sheeting for sterilization, are changing the environment and practice of surgery and empowering patients in new ways. In fact, robotic systems handle more types of surgeries than any other specialty, including hysterectomies and bladder surgeries. This explosive breakthrough heralds a new frontier in medical therapy.
Speaking at the launch event, consultant colorectal surgeon Caroline Burt emphasized the advantages of this technology. She pointed to the robotic arms as being “incredibly dextrous,” and hence accurate, so that surgeons could conduct complex tasks more easily. NHS England anticipates these robotic systems will be carrying out over 500,000 procedures within the decade. By 2029, this technological development will virtually eliminate wait times for patients.
On her recent surgical procedure, patient Lisa Brittain felt the benefits of this groundbreaking surgical approach right away. Ahead of her surgery, she cheekily took to social media to record her feelings. She pictured bluescapes of R2-D2, everyone’s favorite astromech droid from the Star Wars universe. This tongue-in-cheek comparison did serve to highlight just how sophisticated the technology at work during her operation is.
To that end, Burt stressed the important, collaborative role of medical staff and support during these procedures. The surgeon is much more in control when performing an operation. Each action relies heavily on the lead surgeon’s instinct and dexterity. Nothing is done en masse, automatically or robotic either. She continued. This is to say that even though robotic arms can improve surgical precision, the experience and judgment of surgeons will always be the most important factor.
The deployment of such robotic arms into the surgical ecosystem requires a collaborative effort amongst medical staff. Two staff members stand beside the patient and the robotic equipment during surgery, ensuring everything is adjusted correctly for optimal performance. Read more Burt noted how these robotic systems have made her a better stitcher during surgeries. Consequently, patients are not only receiving improved surgical quality of care.
Sir Jim Mackey, the deeply influential Chief Exec of NHS England’s Foundation Trust, talked up the disruptive potential of robotic surgery. “We are using every tool at our disposal to ensure patients get the best possible treatment,” he remarked. He further added, “Not only does it speed up the number of procedures the NHS can do, but it means better outcomes, a faster recovery and shorter hospital stays for patients.”
Southmead Hospital is using technology in new ways to provide better care for patients. It is on the cutting edge of new surgical minimally invasive approaches. Surgery’s future is bright, but robotic arms will continue to be essential in increasing efficiency and patient satisfaction.