Surgeons at the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital (NNUH) recently performed a significant oesophagectomy using advanced robotic technology, marking a milestone for both the hospital and its patients. Due to this rapid expansion, NNUH has quickly grown to become the largest provider of multi-speciality robotic surgery at a single site in the East of England. The most recent surgery showed the full capabilities of a Da Vinci robot.
In fact, this operation, led by Senior Consultant Surgeon Nicholas Penney, was an amazing 12 hour op on the basics to save Nick Samiotis from oesophageal cancer. Using a 3D console, Penney maneuvered the Da Vinci robot, which provides for greater detail when performing delicate surgeries. Each instrument fitted to the robot costs £200 and has a short shelf life of only 10 uses.
This trailblazing methodology extends beyond just boosting innovation in the OR. It drastically reduces recovery time and pain for patients. Penney emphasized the benefits, stating, “It’s a lot less trauma to the body so your recovery period is much reduced.” He further clarified that every motion performed during a robotic-assisted procedure is compacted down, which enables extremely stable and precise control of the instruments used.
The successful surgery left Samiotis with just 15 tiny keyhole scars, which he called an unbelievable result. Less than two weeks after the procedure, he was walking his dog again. Samiotis expressed his relief and gratitude, saying, “You wouldn’t know I’d had an operation unless you were there.” He added, “My family are massively relieved I’ve come through the operation and I’m standing 10 days later.”
NNUH aims to lead in robotic surgical training in partnership with the University of East Anglia, enhancing its reputation in this evolving field. The hospital has recently purchased two more robots through this initiative. This £8 million investment was only possible thanks to a hugely generous £2.8 million donation to the Norfolk and Norwich Hospitals Charity. Right now, they’re fundraising for a fifth robot which would allow them to carry out paediatric procedures too, broadening their capabilities even more.
James Hernon, NNUH’s associate clinical director, spoke about the increasing popularity of robotic-assisted surgeries. He stated that this method is “fast becoming the future of surgical practice,” emphasizing its potential to change patient care standards.
Nick Samiotis’ journey through cancer treatment highlights both the advancements in medical technology and the human spirit’s resilience. His daughter, Tabitha, commended the surgical staff for their incredible talent combined with her father’s tenacious fight. She recalled being on the phone with a lone triaging nurse. The same operation she had done wasn’t even possible three years ago, her nurse had told her.