Cork University Maternity Hospital is hoping to become the leading centre in Europe for training in a new robotic surgical system after yesterday becoming the first hospital in Ireland to commission the new computer-operated system.
The new €1.7 million Da Vinci Surgical System will enable physicians to perform gynaecological procedures with surgeons using a computer console to control robotic arms.
Consultant in obstetrics and gynaecology at the hospital Dr Barry O'Reilly, who will carry out the first procedure using the Da Vinci in the autumn, outlined the benefits.
"Currently, surgeries are performed in the open manner in which large incisions are required for the surgeon to observe and manipulate the surgical field. With the Da Vinci robotic-assisted surgery, minuscule incisions are made in which a tiny camera and surgical instruments are inserted into the patient's body.
"The instruments are attached to the robotic arms and controlled remotely by the surgeon who sits at a computer console, manipulating the controls while viewing an enlarged 3D image of the surgical site. The robotic arms allow a full 360-degree rotation and eliminate the natural tremor in the surgeon's hands."
Prof of obstetrics and gynaecology at Cork University, Prof John Higgins said the minimally invasive procedures could offer several potential benefits over open surgery, including "shorter hospital stay, less pain and scarring, reduced risk of infection, reduced blood loss and fewer transfusions, quicker recovery time and return to normal activities".