Robot celebrates 100th procedure
Ealing Hospital has marked a major milestone by completing its 100th robotic-assisted surgical procedure, while also setting what it believes is a national record for completing more robotic procedures in the first quarter of implementation than any other NHS trust in the UK.
Consultant General Surgeon Panos Drymousis, one of four surgeons currently using the hospital's da Vinci surgical system, used it to remove a gall bladder to commemorate the centenary procedure.
Panos said: “We all enjoy using the robot and are planning to train more colleagues later in the year. The ability to see in 3D while operating is a real game changer and is undoubtedly the way forward.
“Our only real issue is that we only have one robot because everyone wants to use it!”
The da Vinci robot joined the surgical team at Ealing Hospital in April and is primarily used for high-volume, lower-complexity procedures, including gall bladder removals, hernia repairs and anti-reflux surgery.
Panos highlighted the benefits for both patients and staff: “It's a win-win situation for everyone. Patients enjoy faster recovery times and often leave hospital later the same day.
"It improves flow through the hospital, and surgeons work in greater comfort, operating from a seated console.”