'Robotic aide' revolutionizing patient recovery

Torbay Hospital have showed off their latest use of state-of-the-art 'robot': the Da Vinci Si Surgical System.

Torbay is currently the only place in the South West using the Robot in gynaecological procedures. The Da Vinci Si Surgical System has been in action since 2009, helping surgeons perform more than 100 cases. Surgeons began using the Robot in colorectal and urological procedures, but began gynaecological procedures in March.

The DVSSS allows surgeons to perform a variety of operations by making much smaller incisions. Consultants also gain greater control and are able to "drive" a collection of robotic "arms" while gaining a magnified view of the operation site. This revolutionary technique greatly improves patient recovery time and results in less pain, discomfort, and scarring.

Although not suitable to use in every case; the new use of the Robot has excited Torbay Hospital medical staff.

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Morven Leggett, Consultant Gynaecologist at Torbay Hospital, who carried out the first gynaecological procedures along with colleague Jonathan Hindley said: "It has been fantastic to carry out the first hysterectomy cases for women in the South West using this advanced and smart technology. We are one of just a few Trusts in the country to be using the Da Vinci Si Robot in this way.

"There are numerous benefits for women having a hysterectomy in this way, including more precise surgery, minimal tissue damage, less discomfort and a much quicker recovery time.

John Lowes, Medical Director at South Devon Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust said: "Torbay Hospital is incredibly proud to be leading the way forward in this advanced for of surgery.

"This type of surgery will not replace laparoscopic or open surgery, as there is never a one size fits all approach, but for women who are not suitable candidates for conventional laparoscopic treatment, robotic surgery is another option to an open surgery procedure, which can carry a longer recovery time.

"It is also hoped that as the use of the Robot for gynaecological procedures widens that we would be able to offer day surgery, enabling women to resume to normal life much quicker."

Mandy Burgess, from Torquay had a hysterectomy using the Robotic technology ten days ago. She said "My recovery has just been fantastic. I had open abdominal surgery a few years ago and you just can't compare the recovery. When I had a previous operation I was in hospital for five days and was off work for nine weeks.

"I did have some discomfort after the operation, as to be expected, but by lunch time the next day I was feeling fine and was able to go home that evening.

"The next day I was out walking dogs and I have returned to normal life very quickly. I would fully recommend it."

The Da Vinci Si Surgical System was purchased by Torbay Hospital in 2006 after a £1.5 million gift from the hospital's League of Friends.