Robotic Surgery Milestone: South West's First Independent Hospital to Invest in da Vinci® Robotic-assisted Technology

Sulis Hospital is delighted to announce its investment in the cutting-edge robotic technology: the da Vinci® assisted robotic surgical system, facilitating surgeons to perform complex procedures through small incisions. The da Vinci® system uses high-definition, three-dimensional visualisation and articulated instruments. With this technology, surgeons can access difficult-to-reach anatomical areas through small keyhole incisions and do so with greater dexterity and visualisation.

For the patients who choose this technique, it will mean greater precision, less scarring and reduced postoperative pain. Crucially, patients will benefit from accelerated recovery times. The technology immediately provides choice for patients needing hernia repairs, and as our surgical teams expand, it will support other gastrointestinal operations and both urology and gynaecology procedures.  

Simon Milner, Hospital Director at Sulis Hospital, comments: “Sulis has seen robotic-assisted surgery as the future and is investing for our patients early. We are committed to investing in technology that gives our consultants more options when planning and delivering treatment. The da Vinci® system is an important addition to our surgical capability, combining advanced technology with the expertise and judgement of our specialist surgeons.”

Sulis Hospital has a longstanding commitment to surgical innovation and was the first hospital in Bath to introduce Mako® robotic-arm assisted technology for hip and knee replacement surgery.

The arrival of da Vinci® technology expands that commitment into general surgery and establishes Sulis Hospital as a leading centre for robotic-assisted procedures in the region.

Simon Milner, Hospital Director at Sulis Hospital, comments further: “Investment in advanced technology is central to our vision for Sulis Hospital. Being able to offer da Vinci® robotic-assisted surgery to private patients is a major step forward. It builds on our existing expertise in robotic surgery and reinforces our commitment to providing patients across Bath and the wider region with access to high-quality, specialist care.”

A Patient's Perspective: Understanding Robotic Surgery

For patients considering robotic-assisted surgery, understanding exactly what ‘robotic’ means can be an important part of the decision-making process. 

Jonathan, who underwent robotic-assisted hernia surgery with Miss Sarah Richards, wanted to make sure he fully understood how the procedure would work before making his decision.

"I did extensive research beforehand to make sure I understood how the procedure would work. I wanted to know exactly what the robotic system did and how much control the surgeon had."

During his consultation, Sarah explained that the system does not operate independently. Instead, the consultant surgeon controls the system from a dedicated console, manipulating the surgical instruments while controlling the operating field through high-definition 3D visualisation.

For Jonathan, understanding that distinction was important. He was also reassured by Sarah Richard’s extensive experience using robotic-assisted surgery.

"I knew Sarah was someone who had experience of robotic surgery, and that gave me a lot of confidence in choosing to have the procedure," he said.

He subsequently chose to undergo the robotic-assisted surgery. He explained that his pain after the operation was managed with simple pain relief and, at around three and a half weeks after surgery, reported that he was recovering incredibly well.

Patients interested in finding out more can arrange a consultation through Sulis Hospital’s private patent service.