Rise of the robots in Far North

Cairns Private Hospital has expanded its array of robotic technology, so more procedures can be performed locally for residents of Queensland's Far North.

The Ramsay Health Care facility has added the VELYS system to its ROSA orthopaedic robot and the da Vinci Xi surgical robot used for urology, gynaecology and colorectal surgery. 

It was first used for a knee replacement surgery in October 2023, and demand for the procedure is expected to rise in a state where the number of people aged 65 and over is growing three times faster than any other demographic.

Cairns Private Hospital's Medical Director, Dr Chris Morrey, said the state-of-the-art technology was making advanced treatment more accessible for regional Australians.

"Reducing the need to travel to a major city for robotic surgical procedures helps reduce stress for patients and allows them to recover close to home, with their support network," said Dr Morrey, an orthopaedic surgeon.

"The financial cost for Far North Queenslanders to constantly travel south for appointments, scans and surgeries also cannot be overestimated. Having this technology in Cairns is a wonderful thing for the local community."

Robotic technologysuch as the VELYS systemallowsa minimally-invasive approach to surgery, using advanced cameras and optical trackers to help surgeons plan and execute precise procedures tailored to a patient's specific anatomy.

Cairns Private Hospital CEO Ben Toothsaid Ramsay Health Care wascommitted toimproving the wellbeing ofcommunitiesin the region.

The hospital has begun an $18 million upgrade, with the first of two new operating theatres expected to open in mid-2024.

"We're proud to continue investing in leading surgical technology that's designed to improve patient experience and outcomes," he said.

Read more: Ramsay expansions increase patient options

Read more: New hospital planned for Townsville

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