News

New $3.5 million robotic surgical system unveiled

Feb 14, 2017

It’s here. A new, defining chapter in the history of the Sunshine Coast University Private Hospital.

The $3.5 million xi robotic surgical system was unveiled at the Sunshine Coast University Private Hospital today. It is the only one of its kind on the coast.

The two-metre high machine consists of a console where the surgeon sits and a patient-side cart. The surgeon controls four interactive robot arms to perform complex and delicate operations through tiny incisions and a 3D HD vision system.

The hospital is using the da Vinci Xi robot for prostatectomy, partial nephrectomy, and management of prostate cancer and will soon extend it to gynaecology and general surgery.

Dr Stuart Collins, Urological Surgeon at Sunshine Coast Private Hospital, said the benefits for patients of the robotic system included a shorter hospital stay, fewer complications, less need for pain medicine, minimal scarring and a faster recovery time than other types of surgery.

"Looking through 3D gives us 10 times magnification, which gives you a much better perception of the organs while also preserving the nerves, and provides us with precise stitching," Dr Collins said.

"I've performed many prostatectomy operations for patients using the robotic surgical system at Greenslopes Private Hospital in Brisbane. It is very effective and based on my experience, one of the least invasive surgical approaches to prostate cancer treatment,” he said.

"Robotic surgical systems have traditionally only been offered in metropolitan areas and I have had to take my patients to Brisbane to access this technology. It is wonderful that this is here now for patients on the Sunshine Coast.

Marking the milestone this week is a special open day for the public who are invited to witness this incredible technology and the bright minds behind it first hand, with the xi robotic surgical system on display in the foyer of the hospital.

For those that are interested to try their hand at this next generation of surgical equipment, robotic simulations are running from 8.30am – 3.30pm each day on Tuesday 14 February through to Thursday 16 February.

Sunshine Coast University Private Hospital CEO Oliver Steele said there was a compelling need for the technology in the region and he was delighted to be able to deliver improved urological services to the community.

"We have our first Sunshine Coast patient already scheduled and expect many more to come,” Mr Steele said.

"Our hospital and doctors are committed to being a leader in the field of men’s health and helping to shape the future of healthcare for many generations on the Sunshine Coast.”