Meet West Herts Hospital trust's new ROBOTIC surgeons
The 'DaVinci' robots are being praised by doctors and patients alike
West Herts NHS Trust has made significant advancements in robotic surgery, integrating cutting-edge technology to improve patient outcomes and streamline surgical procedures. In April 2022, the trust acquired two SO22 robotic systems, including the UK-manufactured Cambridge CMR Versius system and the US-based Intuitive da Vinci robot.
The technology could soon allow cancer patients to go home within 24 hours of an operation.
Vanash Patel, Consultant Colorectal Surgeon at West Herts NHS Trust, explained the strategic move: "We bought two systems from the outset to change the hospital culture from traditional laparoscopic surgery to robotic surgery." This decision marked a departure from the typical incremental approach of purchasing robotic systems.
The trust has trained 14 consultant surgeons in robotic surgery across four specialties and has become the first hospital in the UK to train junior doctors in this technology. "Our junior doctors, are now operating on patients safely, which doesn’t happen elsewhere in the country," Dr Patel noted.
Since the implementation of robotic surgery, nearly 400 operations have been performed, and the trust recently expanded its capabilities by acquiring two more robotic systems, including the advanced da Vinci XI. This expansion allows the hospital to undertake more complex operations robotically. Additionally, the trust has introduced a robotic system for treating enlarged prostates and plans to purchase a robot for hip and knee operations.
Dr Patel highlighted the benefits of robotic surgery: "Patients experience less pain, less blood loss, and faster recovery times. We've reduced hospital stays from five days to two or three days." The precise nature of robotic surgery and the reduction in post-operative pain have enabled the trust to avoid using traditional pain relief methods like epidurals.
The new systems have also positively impacted staff training and retention. "We’ve increased our number of trainees and improved workforce morale. Our theatre nurses and consultants are excited about the new challenges," Dr Patel said. The trust's enhanced reputation has attracted high-quality consultants, reducing vacancy rates and waiting times for surgeries like gallbladder operations.
Robotic surgery also fosters teamwork and efficiency. Dr Patel mentioned instances where multiple operations were performed in one session, thanks to the standardization and precision of robotic systems. "Last week, my colleague did four hernia operations in one morning with the robot," Dr Patel shared.
Addressing concerns about cost, Dr Patel explained that while the initial investment in robotic systems is significant, the long-term savings in patient recovery, reduced hospital stays, and improved operational efficiency justify the expense. "The financial benefits are evident when the program is successful and high-volume robotic surgery is performed."
Dr Patel emphasized the importance of comprehensive training for both consultants and junior doctors. "We train our doctors in open, laparoscopic, and robotic surgery, ensuring they are well-equipped for any situation."
Patient Experience
Ginny St John Glew recently underwent robotic surgery at Watford General Hospital, sharing her experience with remarkable enthusiasm. “I had a very small early bowel cancer,” she recounted. “When I went to see Mr. Patel, he told me it was going to be keyhole surgery. It didn’t click at the time that this meant robotic surgery.”
Ginny learned about the robotic aspect just a day before her operation, when she received an email requesting her consent. “I thought this is so exciting, to be part of something as modern as that,” she said. Before the surgery, she asked Mr. Patel if the robot had a nickname. “He didn’t say there was one. But well, you should name it.”
Ginny did not see the robot during the procedure as she was prepared in a room before entering the operating theater. The robotic keyhole surgery involved smaller incisions and the removal of half of her colon. “Everything was fine,” she said, highlighting her short hospital stay of only two days.
Ginny was then enrolled in the hospital’s virtual recovery program. “I was sent home with an app on my phone, a blood pressure monitor, a finger monitor for oxygen and heart rate, and a thermometer. The data was sent via Bluetooth to the hospital. It was amazing,” she said.
Just 12 days after the surgery, Mr. Patel informed her that all evidence of cancer had been removed. “I didn’t need any further treatment,” Ginny said. “It was slightly less than two months from when I was told I had a small cancer to being told I haven’t got anything at all. I was so thrilled and pleased with what the NHS had done for me in such a short time.”
Ginny expressed her gratitude to the hospital’s board and praised Watford General as a center of excellence. “I didn’t know what I was going into, but I’m thrilled I was able to have it. It was fantastic.”
Reflecting on her experience, Ginny noted, “Because it was keyhole, it was less invasive. My recovery was a lot quicker. This week is just six weeks since I had it done, and I’ve been playing golf again.”
Ginny is encouraging others to let go of their apprehension about the robotic surgery. “I was excited. I jokingly said to my friends, I hope they programmed it correctly and I don’t wake up with one less leg,” she said with a laugh.