State-of-the-art robotic technology arrives on the Sunshine Coast
Patients from across the Sunshine Coast and beyond will now have access to cutting-edge robotic technology for hip and knee replacement surgery and certain gynaecological procedures.
Buderim Private Hospital has welcomed the first Mako robot for hip and knee replacement surgeries to the region and is pioneering the use of the Da Vinci Xi surgical robotic system for gynaecological procedures.
The arrival of the multimillion-dollar Mako robot signals a breakthrough in orthopaedic surgery. Its primary mission: to elevate the precision and accuracy of hip and knee replacement procedures.
The groundbreaking technology represents a significant leap forward in improving the quality of life for people in need of hip and knee replacements.
The ergonomic design of the systems also benefits surgeons, reducing strain on their upper back, shoulders, arms, and wrists, potentially extending their careers.
Buderim Private Hospital’s investment in these robotic systems, totalling more $3 million, has been made possible in part through a generous bequest from a former patient and local resident, Mr Leslie Cairns.
General Manager, Shane Mitchell, said the arrival of the Mako robot was part of the hospital’s long commitment to providing the Sunshine Coast community with access to innovative technology and quality care close to home.
“Providing high-quality care and positive outcomes to patients on the Sunshine Coast is at the heart of everything we do,” Mr Mitchell said.
“We are really excited about the arrival of the Mako robot and what that will mean for the hundreds of patients who come to us every year for joint replacement surgery and who trust us with their care.”
Dr Shane Blackmore, Dr Frank Connon and Dr Hamish Gray will all offer access to Mako robotic services, with other orthopaedic surgeons currently undergoing training to offer the service in the future.
“We are really excited about the arrival of the Mako robot and what that will mean for the hundreds of patients who come to us every year for joint replacement surgery and who trust us with their care.”
While the Mako robot dominates the orthopaedic area, the Da Vinci Xi surgical robotic system will offer improved outcomes for women undergoing gynaecological surgery.
The Da Vinci Xi system provides surgeons with an unparalleled three-dimensional, high-definition view inside the body, greatly enhancing their ability to perform intricate procedures with precision.
The innovation allows access to areas that were previously challenging to reach through conventional laparoscopic surgery, reducing the need for larger incisions and minimising post-operative pain.
Obstetrician and gynaecologist, Dr Benjamin Stokes, said the state-of-the-art technology would be utilised for selected patients, including those undergoing hysterectomies, addressing endometriosis, and managing uterine fibroids.
“This new technology gives surgeons better access, better vision, and hopefully better outcomes for our patients,” Dr Stokes said.
“The current literature demonstrates outcomes are similar to conventional laparoscopic surgery however, from a surgeon’s perspective, you get better vision during surgery due to three-dimensional high-definition view inside the body.
“Another major advantage is that due to the 360-degree rotational instrument, it allows access to areas that you previously couldn’t operate on laparoscopically and required a large, open incision.”
The benefits of robotic technology for patients are exciting. The technology has been associated with a trend towards shorter hospital stays, with less pain relief and faster return to normal activities.