Bowel surgery robot 'improves outcomes' - trust

The Trust said the da Vinci surgical robot minimises invasive surgery for bowel operations

Major bowel operations assisted by robots have "significantly improved outcomes for patients", a hospital trust said.

Surgeons have been assisted in 100 operations at Ashford and St Peter's Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust.

The da Vinci surgical robot uses clear 3D images and instruments with 360-degree mobility to remove and reconstruct sections of patients' bowels.

Jonathan Trickett, Robotic Lead at the trust, said the 100th surgery marked "an important milestone which has improved the lives of many of our patients".

Mr Trickett continued: "Using our da Vinci robot, we have seen a decrease in the length of a hospital stay, fewer complications, including surgical site infections, and fewer readmissions."

The da Vinci surgery robot was introduced in July 2023 and 500 patients across the UK have benefited from it.

It has been used primarily for cancers, but also treats conditions such as endometriosis, diverticular disease, colitis and Crohn's disease.

Dr Mark Roland, chief medical officer, added: "It is fantastic to see this remarkable piece of equipment being put to such good use.

"The potential to treat more patients means we can make sure that our local community receives the best possible care."

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