News

New surgical robot a first for Mornington Peninsula

Mar 09, 2021

Residents in Victoria’s Frankston and Mornington Peninsula regions now have access to state-of-the-art robotic technology thanks to Peninsula Private Hospital’s purchase of the renowned da Vinci Xi robot.

It marks a quantum leap in surgical technology, with reviews of published studies suggesting patients operated on with the da Vinci technology can experience fewer overall complications, a shorter stay in hospital and less pain than those who have open surgery. 

 Peninsula Private Hospital’s Chief Executive Officer Michelle Henderson said local patients would no longer need to travel to Melbourne to access the very latest robotic equipment. 

 “We are the first hospital in the region to offer da Vinci Xi robotic surgery and we’re delighted to provide this option for our patients and specialists alike,” Ms Henderson said. 

 "For patients, the technology will be available at no additional out of pocket expense, which allows our surgeons to choose the best surgical approach for each individual,” she said. 

 Peninsula Private Hospital specialist surgeon Dr Charles Pilgrim said robotic surgery had the capacity to revolutionise the way tradition keyhole operations are performed. 

 “It simply makes surgery easier, more precise and more efficient. It is computer enhanced surgery and actually improves the surgeon’s skill because there are things the robot can do that the human hand and fingers struggle with,” Dr Pilgrim said. 

 “The robot holds the surgical instruments perfectly still and in exactly the location the surgeons direct, which provides a more stable platform to carry out complex tasks. 

 “The new robotic instruments are like an extension of the surgeon’s hands and fingers with equal, if not improved dexterity over the human hand. Even difficult operations seem easier and less physically tiring for the surgeon,” Dr Pilgrim said. 

 The da Vinci Xi is designed to enhance a surgeon’s capabilities by providing improved control, precision and movements.  

 It features anatomical access, crystal-clear 3DHD vision and a platform designed to seamlessly integrate future innovations.