Stanley Russell is a resident of Herne Bay. He recently had robotic surgery as the second patient in the world at Queen Elizabeth, The Queen Mother Hospital (Margate). On Thursday the procedure was done. It’s an important step in pushing the technique forward for patients across east Kent.
Russell had a significant section of his bowel removed as part of his diagnosis with bowel cancer. Having performed the operation, he went home again on Sunday. He was genuinely upbeat about his recovery, saying he’s getting better every day. Consultant colorectal and general surgeon Sudhaker Mangam takes the lead on the procedure. This project is designed to bring newly advanced surgical abilities with the use of this robotic technology.
While performing the robotic surgery, Mangam deftly controlled the mechanized marvel’s four-armed precision robot. This cutting-edge technology allowed him to conduct the operation with stunning accuracy. The robot offers a 3D view inside the patient’s body, enabling surgeons to navigate complex anatomical structures more effectively than traditional methods.
Mandy Lee, the third and most recent patient to receive the robotic procedure, explained her own fears as she considered a robotic surgery.
“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
The staff at QEQM spent quality time walking Lee and Russell through the process. They promised them that the exact same kind of surgery through robotic technology has been routinely and safely performed all over Europe.
The team made it all easy to follow along. They promised me this “watchful waiting” option would be easier on my body compared to more invasive surgery, and that sounded pretty good to me. Russell noted after his procedure.
Regional Director Sudhaker Mangam, an experienced surgeon, highlighted the importance of this new advanced surgical capability for patients in the region.
“This marks a major advancement in surgical capability for east Kent patients, enabling greater precision, improved outcomes, and faster recovery times.” – Sudhaker Mangam
The procedure, which was introduced by the NHS in London at the end of 2023, has yielded impressive results ever since. Through the use of this emerging technology, surgeons will be able to reduce patient pain and increase equity in surgical quality. With this creative approach, patients find their recovery times cut in half. It’s a big deal not just for patients but for the region’s adoption of more advanced medical practices.