For 54-year-old Norfolk resident Nick Samiotis, who has recently had a robotic oesophagectomy at the NNUH. This new procedure is an important breakthrough in surgical technique. Nicholas Penney, a surgeon at OHSU, used a Da Vinci robot to perform the procedure. This robot is a major component of NNUH’s growth robotics programme and is going from strength. This cutting-edge approach has revolutionized the surgical experience for patients. They are fortunate to have less invasive options available and to have faster recovery times.
Just before his birthday in August, Samiotis was diagnosed with oesophageal cancer. After chemo to shrink the tumor, Mr. Diaz chose robotic surgery over open surgery. He noticed that if he had done the latter, he actually would have paid three weeks’ worth of hospital bills. This decision would have resulted in a slower rebound.
At NNUH, nearly 25% of all oesaphectomies were performed robotically before the expansion of their robotics program. The local hospital recently purchased two Da Vinci robots. This amazing acquisition was funded with more than £2.8 million in gifts received by the Norfolk and Norwich Hospitals Charity. This investment helped make NNUH the region’s largest provider of multi-specialty robotic surgery. Now, patients have access to the best robotic surgical services—all under one roof.
It was an amazing 12-hour surgery. Surgeon Nicholas Penney expertly guided the operation through a 3D helmet with the Da Vinci logo stamped on the front. Though Penney is well trained in robotics, even he had to rely on his hands to make a few incisions during the operation. Each robotic instrument costs about £200 and is usable just 10 times. This underscores the complexity and cost that goes into highly specialized surgeries.
Once Samiotis was past the surgery, he found himself delighted—dangerously surprised—by his recovery. And just nine days after the procedure, he was returned to walking his dog. The only visible proof of the operation was 15 tiny keyhole scars. Reflecting on his experience, he stated, “You wouldn’t know I’d had an operation unless you were there.” He expressed gratitude for the advancements in medical technology, saying, “It’s a lot less trauma to the body so your recovery period is much reduced.”
Dr. James Hernon, associate clinical director at NNUH, spoke to the increasing importance of robotic-assisted surgeries as they relate to other surgical techniques. He stated that this method is “fast becoming the future of surgical practice,” highlighting its potential to improve patient outcomes significantly.
Samiotis’ family was equally happy and relieved at his progress. So pointed out his daughter Tabitha, reminding how quickly the surgical options have progressed. She thought about how, just three years ago, this kind of procedure wouldn’t have even been possible. Talking about her father’s unbreakable spirit, she added, “You have to be upbeat, he’s a fighter.”
