Braemar Hospital Surges Ahead With Surgical Robot

Braemar Hospital is bringing surgical excellence to the next level with the purchase of a surgical robot, the first of its kind in the Waikato region.

The multi-million da Vinci Xi robot will give patients more choices by bringing leading-edge surgical technology to the Waikato community. Due to arrive in Hamilton by the end of June, this robot is the first of its kind in the Waikato region and will be available for patient procedures later this year.

The da Vinci system is a robotic machine with four arms that helps surgeons perform complex procedures as a minimally invasive alternative to traditional open surgery. The da Vinci system is used in various surgical specialties, including general, urological, gynaecological, and increasingly in thoracic and cardiac surgeries. There are currently eight da Vinci surgical robots in New Zealand - one at North Shore Hospital and the rest in private hospitals.

Chief Executive, Fiona Michel says: “Braemar Hospital’s purpose is to Make Lives Better, and we aspire to be New Zealand’s most innovative provider of surgical excellence. The robot investment is about more choices for our patients, and it will also play a part in supporting the attraction and retention of clinicians in Hamilton.”

“As an independent, not-for-profit hospital, fully owned by the Braemar Charitable Trust, the purchase of a multi-million dollar da Vinci surgical robot represents a significant investment in, and commitment to our community,” says Michel.

Braemar Hospital prides itself on being at the forefront of surgical firsts for the region and across New Zealand, to ensure its community has access to a wide range of safe, high-quality procedures. It will be implementing an intensive training program for surgeons wanting to use the robot in the coming months.

Patients curious about being treated by a surgeon trained to use the da Vinci surgical robot should discuss their preferences with their GP or specialist, who will outline options and give support to make the best decision for a patient’s circumstances. Some health insurers will cover the cost of robotic procedures, and patients should discuss their plans with their insurer ahead of seeking pre-approval, as coverage varies between providers and policies.

All you need to know about the da Vinci robot

The da Vinci robot allows for minimally invasive surgery for patients resulting in smaller incisions, leading to less pain and scarring, faster recovery times and reduced length of hospital stay. The surgeon controls the system from a console within the operating theatre – right next to the patient, using hand movements to manipulate tiny, wristed instruments that replicate the surgeon's actions on the patient.

The system provides a 3D, high-definition view of the surgical area, magnified and allowing for greater precision and control.

Not all surgical procedures are suitable for delivery with a surgical robot, with open and laparoscopic (keyhole) surgery continuing to be appropriate in many cases.

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