The Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother (QEQM) Hospital in Kent has reached an innovative first in surgical care. It recently completed its first robotic surgeries, significantly reducing wait times and improving outcomes for patients in east Kent. On a recent Thursday, 68-year-old Mandy Lee had robotic surgery to remove her bowel cancer. She was one of the first patients to have access to this advanced technology at the facility.
Consultant Colorectal and General Surgeon Sudhaker Mangam performed the surgery. Their team employed a highly advanced robotic system with four articulated arms. These advances in surgical robot technology give surgeons the ability to operate remotely from anywhere around the world, offering greater precision and control during the procedure. The surgeon was then able to access a 3D view of the patient’s internal structures. This new technology allowed for more targeted, effective interventions.
During the procedure, something went wrong and Lee ended up having most of her bowel removed. Remarkably, she was back home just three days later on Sunday. This demonstrates the opportunity for faster recovery times with robotic procedures.
“It was a bit of a scary thought, I hadn’t even considered the possibility of robotic surgery, but I just wanted the cancer gone and I wasn’t put off.” – Mandy Lee
As he pointed out, this technological advance was a big deal for the local patients.
Herne Bay patient Stanley Russell draws encouragement from Lee. He was the second person to have a robotic procedure at QEQM. On a personal note, he reflected favorably on the support given to him at each stage of the process to help guide him along.
“This marks a major advancement in surgical capability for east Kent patients, enabling greater precision, improved outcomes, and faster recovery times.” – Sudhaker Mangam
Just this past spring, the NHS in London rolled out robotic surgery. It’s further evidence of just how pervasive the influence of robotics in the medical field, including innovative applications to patient care. With Lee and Russell’s successful surgeries, their initial optimism turns to hope for the future, one where patients who need complex procedures can receive them with less invasive techniques.
“The team explained everything really well and said it would be less painful than going through more invasive surgery, so that made sense to me.” – Stanley Russell
We’re pleased to report that both patients are doing very well. More importantly, they’re leading the way in demonstrating how innovative technology can drive better cancer treatment and care of patients in their communities. Thanks to breakthroughs like these, countless patients can now look forward to more successful surgical solutions.
As they continue to recover, both patients serve as examples of how innovative technology can transform cancer treatment and enhance patient care in their communities. With advancements like these, many patients can look forward to more effective surgical options.