New figures have revealed that the da Vinci robotic-assisted surgery (RAS) systems used by NHS surgeons have been used to treat over 10,000 patients in Scotland since 2021.
The pioneering systems have reduced rates of open surgery, improved equity of access and outcomes for patients, and enhanced NHS productivity, according to clinicians in Glasgow.
An expansion of use saw the Scottish Government invest in 12 additional da Vinci surgical systems since 2021, more than tripling the number of existing da Vinci surgical systems in the country.
In NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, the systems are in place at both the Glasgow Royal Infirmary (GRI) and Queen Elizabeth University Hospital (QEUH).
The primary aim was to improve access to RAS for gynaecology and colorectal patients, the clinical specialities that had the highest rates of open surgery in Scotland. It also supported continued expansion in the already established programmes of urology, thoracic, and head and neck surgery.
As a result, more patients in Scotland have been able to benefit from minimally invasive surgery, with the improved outcomes associated with da Vinci RAS, such as quicker recovery times, fewer complications, and a reduced chance of readmission, helping to improve productivity across Scotland.
Da Vinci robotic-assisted surgery is a form of minimally invasive surgery in which surgeons use da Vinci surgical systems to perform delicate and complex operations through a few small incisions. Surgeons have total control of the system’s movements, benefitting from the enhanced visualisation, dexterity, precision and ergonomics that da Vinci robotic-assisted surgical systems provide.
The GRI, which has seven surgeons trained to use these systems, was featured in the recent BBC Scotland coverage of this milestone. They showed the incredible work of surgeons like Kevin Burton, Consultant Gynaecological Oncologist, using this technology to treat patients quicker and deliver better outcomes.
Neil McCallum, North Sector Director for NHSGGC, said: “I would like to thank our teams who are continuously providing the best possible treatment and care for our patients. At a time when we are facing increased pressures, it is great to highlight the extraordinary work our teams are undertaking.”
Professor Campbell Roxburgh, consultant colorectal surgeon, University of Glasgow and GRI, said: “Thanks to the Scottish Government’s continued investment in this cutting edge technology and its ongoing implementation across the nation, we are now realising what we set out to achieve through the expansion – we have vastly reduced rates of open surgery and we have improved equity of access to robotic-assisted surgery and its associated outcomes for patients. To reach this significant national milestone is testament to that.”
Improved access to da Vinci RAS has been helping to support national healthcare ambitions, forming a key component of the Scottish Cancer Action Plan for 2023-2026.