Patients at the Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother Hospital (QEQM) have undergone pioneering robotic operations. This is a huge step forward for the people of East Kent in providing cutting-edge treatment for cancer. Consultant Colorectal and General Surgeon Sudhaker Mangam performed the pioneering procedures. During his patient story demonstration, he underscored the increased accuracy and improved recovery results this new technology provides.
One of the first patients to undergo—and benefit from—this ground-breaking robotic surgery is Mandy Lee. After being diagnosed with bowel cancer, she had an operation to remove part of her bowel. The great thing is, she had her surgery on a Thursday and she was home by Sunday. Since the surgery, Lee tells me she has been getting better by the day.
“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 robotic system used in the procedure includes four arms that the surgeon controls remotely. This design facilitates greater dexterity and control during surgery, giving surgeons a 3D view inside their patient’s body. These technological advancements have previously been touted as a less painful alternative to more invasive traditional surgical techniques.
Stanley Russell, a 68-year-old local from Herne Bay became the second patient to receive this robotic procedure at QEQM. The surgical team even used the surgical robot to vividly explain the process to him, relieving his fears about pain and recovery.
“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
The introduction of robotic surgery at QEQM is a first step, being predominant by the NHS in London at the start of the year. Mangam further reiterated that this technology represents an important breakthrough in surgical services for the people of East Kent. For starters, it allows for more precision, improves patient outcomes, and helps speed up recovery times.
“This marks a major advancement in surgical capability for east Kent patients, enabling greater precision, improved outcomes, and faster recovery times.” – Sudhaker Mangam
The medical community is excitedly welcoming robotic technology with open arms. Now, patients, such as Lee and Russell, are hopeful about their recoveries and the future of surgical interventions at QEQM Hospital. The successful implementation of these procedures heralds a new era in cancer treatment for the region, promising enhanced care for those facing similar health challenges.