Robot completes first surgery at Murdoch

14 Nov 2019

15 November 2019

The multi-million dollar da Vinci Xi Surgical Systems gives patients quick access to minimally invasive surgery across a range of specialties including urology and gynaecology. 

The technology is also used for colorectal, thoracic and trans-oral (surgical technique used to treat tumours of the mouth and throat via direct access through the mouth) surgeries.

Randall Kronenburg (pictured with surgeons Dr Jeff Thavaseelan and Dr Matt Brown) was the first patient to receive surgery performed by the robot at Murdoch undergoing a urological procedure in early November.

The Scarborough resident said having surgery performed by a robot was an easy decision for him.

“From all the research that I did, I learnt that the outcomes were generally the same compared to traditional surgery but that the recovery was slightly quicker,” he said.

“I was comfortable with the decision to have surgery under a robot as everything was explained very clearly to me and I had a lot of confidence.

“I felt very privileged being the first patient with all the fuss made over me.”

St John of God Murdoch Hospital Urologist Mr Jeffrey Thavaseelan said having this equipment available at the hospital would give patients greater choice.

“I am really excited that for the first time patients can now access this care at St John of God Murdoch Hospital and experience the benefits of precision surgery,” he said.

Murdoch Hospital also offers robotic-assisted surgery in orthopaedics through the MAKO and NAVIO robots.

St John of God Murdoch Hospital CEO Ben Edwards said robotic-assisted technology enables surgeons to reduce the trauma on muscles and tissues surrounding the surgical site.

“Patients benefit from these minimally-invasive procedures meaning they may recover faster in hospital and at home, and experience less pain,” he said.