Australian-first robot helps patient recovery times

Complex surgery with one tiny incision – that's the promise at Epworth HealthCare, where advanced robotic technology is making a difference to patient recovery times.

Traditionally, robotic surgery systems involve the surgeon controlling four mechanical arms, which enter the patient's body through four 8mm incisions.

But the new da Vinci single-port system requires just one incision of around 25mm – and Epworth Richmond is the first hospital in Australia to use it.

Epworth urologist Professor Declan Murphy said the telescope and surgical instruments entered the body straight, as they did in the traditional multi-port robotic surgery, but once deep inside they sprung out "like snakes".

"Patients may be left with just one small scar, which can often be hidden entirely – through the bellybutton for example – and may experience a faster recovery following surgery," he said.

"The single-port system will also help to increase access to robotic surgery for Epworth patients by allowing surgeons to operate in small spaces that can't accommodate multiple ports, such as head and neck cancer surgery via the throat.

"We still see a significant role for multi-port robotic surgery, which continues to allow for precise surgery within the body, but this new single-port system offers our surgeons more options to deliver the best outcomes for our patients."

The advanced technique allows separation between the surgical instruments and the 3D telescope inside the patient's body, which is required when performing robotic procedures, including urology, gynaecology, thoracic, cardiac, colorectal, and general surgery.

Epworth colorectal surgeon Associate Professor Satish Warrier said the single-port robot added to the extensive fleet of robotic systems across the private not-for-profit Victorian healthcare group.

"It won't replace other robotic-assisted surgery for all cases, but it plays a role for select patients requiring colon and rectal procedures, which is significant for us as surgeons, but also for our patients," he said.

"With robotic systems, the surgeon is still in control. The robot is an extension of our hand as we are controlling the equipment."

Prof Murphy said Epworth had pioneered robotic surgery in Australia, as the first to perform robotic surgery in 2003, and continued to lead the country with the introduction of this state-of-the-art technology.

"Epworth has always invested in the most advanced surgical technology for the benefit of our patients for more than 20 years," Prof Murphy said.

Read more: New robotic first at Epworth Richmond

Read more: New robots boost Geelong healthcare options

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