Hospital robots complete 1,000th surgery

A hospital has completed 1,000 surgical procedures using robots.

Milton Keynes University Hospital (MKUH) trialled its first robot in November 2019, with a second arriving in October 2024.

Named Dr Bot and Dex by local school children, the robots are used by surgeons to carry out a range of colorectal, gynaecological, gastrointestinal, urological and general procedures.

Professor Barrie Keeler, consultant colorectal surgeon at MKUH, has used the robots frequently and said the 1,000th surgery was a milestone achievement.

"Our city is one of the fastest-growing in the country and we have to care for an increasing number of patients every year," he said.

"Investing in innovative technology, such as the CMR Versius surgical robots, helps us to do that in a safe, effective and timely way."

During surgery, experts position the robot at the operating table, where its arms hold instruments and a camera.

Inserted through tiny incisions, the robotic arms are controlled by the surgeon from a console with a 3D high definition view.

The robots also assist with abdominal wall reconstruction and complex hernia repairs.

Mr Adnan Qureshi, another consultant colorectal surgeon, praised the technology for how it aids procedures.

He said: "As a surgeon, I benefit from enhanced precision and control, and my patients are typically experiencing reduced complications, faster recovery times and less post-operative pain."

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