Robotic Surgery

Robotic surgery is a highly-specialised form of surgery.  

The Prince of Wales Private Hospital robotics program was launched in October 2018 with the arrival of the da Vinci® Xi Surgical System, the most advanced and widely-used surgical robot in the market. Since then, our surgeons have performed over 1000 cases - that’s a lot of operations in such a short time!

Robotic surgery is unique. It is one of the least invasive ways to operate and provides enhanced visualisation and control. 

In an open procedure, a surgeon may need to create a large incision to access a hard-to-reach area of the body. In some procedures, like heart and lung operations, very big openings are needed and therefore create considerable tissue injury. The da Vinci’s robotic arms, however, make small ‘key-hole’ openings and are steadier than a human hand. The surgeon is able to see deep inside the patient’s body and control the arms from a special console that sits away from the operating table. 

The combination of precision, control and minimal intrusion means that patients may experience fewer post-operative complications (like infections) and return to health faster than a traditional surgery. Robotics also suits patients who are morbidly obese. 

Robot-assisted treatment is available at Prince of Wales Private Hospital to all clinically-suitable patients in the following specialty areas:

• Cardiothoracics – heart and lungs
• Colorectal surgery – large intestine
• General surgery – small intestine and internal organs
• Gynaecology – uterus and pelvic lymph nodes
• Urology – prostate, kidneys, adrenal glands and urinary system  

See how the da Vinci® XI Surgical System works.