Another milestone for SJOG surgical robot

ST John of God Bendigo Hospital has notably reached its one hundredth robotic-assisted surgical case using the da Vinci Xi system, less than six months after the machine’s debut procedure.

Robotic-assisted surgery can mean smaller incisions, less pain, shorter hospital stays and faster recovery for suitable patients – reducing the need to travel to Melbourne for care.

St John of God chief executive Michael Hogan said the pace of progress reflects growing regional capability.

“From our first case on 12 March to our 100th, the momentum is remarkable,” he said.

“It speaks to the skill of our surgeons, theatre and nursing teams.

“We’re on track for around 120 cases by Christmas, while carefully expanding into appropriate specialties and training local talent to sustain the service for years to come.”

The hospital’s director of business development, Anna Hill, thanked donors, sponsors and partners.

“This achievement belongs to Bendigo,” she said.

“To our major donors, philanthropic families, corporate sponsors and every person who gave – thank you.

“Your generosity keeps families close, eases the burden of travel and invests in compassionate, high-quality care for our region.

“As we power toward 120 cases by Christmas, we remain focused on evidence-based growth and exceptional patient experience.”

St John of God aims to continue developing the program in line with patient needs and safety, partnering with visiting medical officers and caregivers to deliver exceptional outcomes for the region.

The da Vinci Xi system arrived in Bendigo thanks to a $2.85 million fundraising campaign led by Ms Hill.