New robotic surgery a first for hospital

ST John of God Ballarat Hospital has successfully performed its first surgery using the newly-acquired da Vinci Surgical System.

The system will expand the hospital’s advanced surgical capabilities and reinforce its leadership in robotic-assisted procedures in the region.

The state-of-the-art da Vinci robot is now being used for urological, colorectal and thoracic surgeries, providing patients with minimally invasive options that are designed for increased precision.

Urologist Robert Forsyth performed the inaugural surgery and highlighted the benefits of robotic-assisted procedures.

“It is exciting to have da Vinci robotic-assisted surgery now available at St John of God Ballarat,” Mr Forsyth said.

“The system allows us to provide more patients access to the benefits of minimally invasive surgery including less blood loss, post-operative pain and faster return to normal activities.

“As surgeons we look forward to offering these state-of-the-art surgical techniques to the patients of western Victoria.”

The da Vinci Surgical System is designed to assist surgeons in performing complex procedures with enhanced precision and control.

It translates the surgeon’s hand movements into highly controlled, small-scale actions using advanced robotic instruments that articulate beyond the natural range of motion.

A high-definition 3D vision system provides a magnified view of the surgical area, allowing for greater visual clarity during procedures.

The technology enables surgeons to operate through small incisions with improved dexterity and stability, supporting minimally invasive approaches for eligible patients.

St John of God Ballarat Hospital now offers the most comprehensive robotic surgery suite in the region, with four cutting-edge surgical robots.

The da Vinci is used for urology, colorectal and thoracic surgery, ROSA for knee procedures, Mako for partial knee, total hip and total knee replacements, and VELYS for advanced knee replacement surgery.

Hospital CEO Maria Noonan emphasised the hospital’s continued investment in innovation.

“By expanding our robotic-assisted surgery program, we are ensuring that patients in our region have access to the latest surgical advancements,” Ms Noonan said.