Patients in Hertfordshire are set to benefit from significantly faster recovery times, more available operations and reduced waiting lists following major investment in the most advanced robotic surgery technology ever used by the NHS.
West Hertfordshire Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust is among the first in the UK to introduce the Intuitive DV5 robotic surgery platform, a next‑generation system designed to transform complex procedures such as bowel, kidney and gall bladder cancer surgery.
The state‑of‑the‑art technology allows surgeons to operate with unprecedented precision. By enabling clinicians to feel greater resistance and apply far less force than previous robotic systems, the DV5 minimises tissue damage during surgery. This results in fewer complications, reduced trauma and faster patient recovery.
For some patients undergoing complex procedures, including bowel cancer surgery, this can mean being discharged just 24 hours after an operation. Following discharge, patients are supported through the Trust’s Virtual Hospital, where wearable technology remotely monitors their health and recovery at home.
However, it is the recovery period itself that causes the greatest anxiety for many patients.
“What patients care most about is when they’ll be able to get back to normal after surgery,” said Dr Vanash Patel, a colorectal surgeon and leader of the Trust’s robotic programme.
“The fatigue and tiredness from an operation for can last up to two months in some cases, and that creates uncertainty and stress for many patients who worry about when they can get back to work and effectively restart their lives again.
“This new system will support faster patient recovery, increase the number of operations we carry out and lead to fewer complications. That’s fantastic news for patients and the surgeons caring for them.”
Boosting Capacity and Cutting Waiting Lists
West Herts already operates one of the most advanced robotic surgery programmes in the UK, and the latest investment reinforces its role as a national leader in innovation while supporting the government’s 10 Year Health Plan.
The Trust expects the DV5 system to deliver clear benefits for both patients and clinicians, including:
- 10,000 times more computing power than previous systems, enabling more efficient surgery and improved outcomes
- Shorter operating times and greater theatre efficiency, potentially allowing an additional 200 operations per year
- A high‑definition 3D vision system, giving surgeons a crystal‑clear, magnified view of the surgical site for greater precision
- The ability for specialists anywhere in the world to view operations live, providing expert guidance in rare or complex cases
- Enhanced training opportunities, with dual‑console controls allowing trainees to be guided step‑by‑step during procedures
The robot will be used across a range of procedures, including bowel cancer, kidney cancer, gall bladder and hernia surgery.
First in the UK for Emergency Robotic Surgery
In a further national first, the Trust is also believed to be the first in England to invest in a robotic surgery system dedicated to its Emergency Department. This will ensure patients who require urgent surgery—such as emergency bowel cancer cases—can access the same advanced robotic care as those treated on a planned basis.
Meanwhile, the arrival of the DV5 robot at Watford General Hospital will allow an existing robotic system to be relocated to St Albans City Hospital, where it will be used to treat high‑volume day cases such as hernia repairs and gall bladder removals.
Dr Patel added:
“We’re proud to have created a centre of excellence in robotics surgery and have welcomed surgeons from all over Europe, the USA and India to see what we do here at West Herts.
“The technology is vital, but is only one part of the story. Our focus has been on training, upskilling and culture change – so we’re working in a joined‑up way across divisions to help our patients get home and recover as fast as possible.
“This latest investment underlines once more our commitment to innovation and delivering the highest quality care for our patients.”
Image credit: iStock
