Robot lends a helping hand in hospital operation

A NEW surgical robot has been used in its first operation at Dumfries and Galloway Royal Infirmary.

The da Vinci Xi robot arrived at the hospital earlier this year and, after weeks of simulator training, surgeons used it to assist in an operation last week.

With multiple precision arms and a high-definition 3D display, it allows surgeons to operate through much smaller incisions, and to work far more accurately, reducing the potential side-effects of the operation.

The plan is to now use it in several areas, including urology, colorectal, gynaecology and general surgery.

Consultant surgeon Jeyakumar Apollos said: “The Da Vinci Xi robot uses technology to enhance precision surgery, minimise complications and reduce recovery times.

“This leads to shorter hospital stays, improved patient outcomes, and greater efficiency in resource use.

“We are delighted to future-proof our surgery service and utilise the robot-assisted technology to deliver effective surgical care within budget constraints.”

General manager of acute and diagnostics Callum Ambridge added: “We’ve been on this journey for about two years, looking to secure the robot for Dumfries and Galloway. It’s about making sure that we keep in line with best practice and also move forward in terms of how we provide our services. This really cements us as a forward-thinking organisation. What we will look to do now is to recruit more people across all different aspects of the profession, and really push us forward as an organisation and as a surgical team.”

Meanwhile, all primary schools in the region are being called on to help name the robot. The winning name will be decided by an appointed judging panel and announced in August.

Children from that school will then be invited to visit DGRI to see the robot and try out the simulator.