Doctors trained to use robotic surgery machine

The doctors are learning how to use the Da Vinci robotic surgery machine at the University Hospital of North Tees

A group of doctors have begun training which will allow them to use robotic equipment to carry out surgery.

They have been learning how to use the multi-million pound Da Vinci robotic surgery machine at the University Hospital of North Tees robotic surgery suite in Stockton.

It will allow them to carry out less invasive procedures with quicker recovery times.

The hospital's robotic surgery matron, Sarah Waite, said the training suite and theatre was a "huge benefit for patients" and helped attract new doctors to work at the site.

"Robotic-assisted surgery is the future. It's much more precise, more efficient and less intrusive for patients," she said.

"The doctors we are training will spend a year with us, learning all the intricacies of robotic-assisted surgery.

"It's not an easy task but I'm sure they will all rise to the occasion."

The robotic suite carries out about two to four surgeries a day for gynaecology, colorectal and urology procedures.

Dr Sarah Safdar, who was being trained in obstetrics and gynaecology, said the classes had allowed her to see the robotic surgery process for the first time.

"It's a new innovation in gynaecology and I'm really excited to learn more," she said.