605 robotics surgeries impress

• Published date: 04 May 2024
• Author: Zolani Sinxo
• Publication title: Weekend Argus

Doctors and employees from these hospitals were joined by Mbombo for an update on the developments of the robotic surgical projects

According to the department, since 2022, the department had performed 605 robotic surgeries with two machines purchased at a combined cost of R80 million in 2021.

“After the initial rollout of colorectal surgery in February and March 2022, the machines were then expanded to include urology and gynaecology. The theatre staff have been trained or upskilled by Da Vinci-accredited personnel. This has led to even greater skill transfers for staff members,” said the department.

It said that currently robotic surgery systems were being used for general surgery and abdominal wall and colorectal surgeries. In urology, they are used for prostatectomies, cystectomies, and nephrectomies. In gynaecology, they are used to treat endometriosis, as well as in applications for pelvic floor urogynaecology.

Lorraine Gys, 65, from Melton Rose, was the first recipient of robotic surgery at a public hospital – Tygerberg Hospital – in South Africa.

“My recovery was very quick in comparison with the other patients in...