Building a multi-platform robotic surgery program
by Dr. Ben Challacombe, Consultant Urological Surgeon
Embracing new technology in healthcare is crucial for improving patient outcomes and streamlining processes. In recent years, robotic-assisted surgical technology has advanced significantly, and multiple systems have become available. As part of a commitment to surgical innovation, I see more hospitals deciding to bring in a diverse collection of robotic systems.
The unique design of each robotic platform helps meet specific needs across multiple specialty areas for hospitals. Robotic systems are used in a wide range of robotic-assisted procedures, including urological, thoracic, renal, gynecologic, upper and lower GI, transplants, and transoral surgeries. Depending on the patient's condition and a hospital’s resources, a single surgeon may utilize up to four different robotic systems in a week.
The unique design of each robotic platform helps meet specific needs across multiple specialty areas for hospitals.”— Dr. Ben Challacombe, Consultant Urological Surgeon
This multi-platform approach can help create a more versatile surgical program, which offers several advantages:
Enhanced flexibility
Different robotic systems have unique strengths and capabilities, so surgeons can select the most appropriate system for each specific procedure, optimizing surgical outcomes.
Different robotic systems have unique strengths and capabilities, so surgeons can select the most appropriate system for each specific procedure, optimizing surgical outcomes.
Increased capacity
Access to multiple robotic systems allows the hospital to handle a higher volume of surgeries, reducing wait times for patients and ensuring that more individuals can benefit from advanced robotic procedures.
Access to multiple robotic systems allows the hospital to handle a higher volume of surgeries, reducing wait times for patients and ensuring that more individuals can benefit from advanced robotic procedures.
Comprehensive training
A multi-platform program provides a broader training experience for surgical teams. Surgeons and support staff become proficient in various systems, enhancing their overall skill set and adaptability.
A multi-platform program provides a broader training experience for surgical teams. Surgeons and support staff become proficient in various systems, enhancing their overall skill set and adaptability.
Cost efficiency
By strategically utilizing different systems based on cost and capability, the hospital can manage resources more efficiently.
By strategically utilizing different systems based on cost and capability, the hospital can manage resources more efficiently.
Patient-specific options
The ability to choose the most suitable robotic system for each surgery ensures that patients receive the highest level of care.
The ability to choose the most suitable robotic system for each surgery ensures that patients receive the highest level of care.
Adopting the Hugo™ RAS system from Medtronic
The Hugo™ robotic-assisted surgery (RAS) system from Medtronic gives hospitals more choice in diversifying their robotic program. The Hugo™ RAS system is different in some key design aspects. The system is modular with an open surgeon console, four independent arm carts, and a vision or ‘control’ tower. The open console allows the surgeon to be much more “in the room.”
Wearing 3D glasses to view an open monitor, surgeons remain engaged with their team, enhancing communication and collaboration. The modular arm carts allow for flexible docking setups tailored to the specific needs of each procedure. This can be crucial for complex surgeries, such as radical prostatectomies and nephrectomies.
Training: the cornerstone of robotic surgery
One of the pivotal aspects of integrating new technology is ensuring that the surgical team is adept at using it. The Hugo™ RAS system, with its modular design and open console, facilitates an interactive training environment. This open console setup allows trainees to experience side-by-side viewing or proctoring, which not only improves the training experience but also ensures that all team members are well-coordinated during actual procedures.
Looking ahead: The future of robotic surgery
Looking to the future, the integration of advanced robotic systems like the Hugo™ RAS system, alongside other established platforms, will continue to drive innovation in surgical practices. The Hugo™ RAS system is a valuable addition to a multi-platform robotic surgery program. I see it as an opportunity to expand the range of procedures performed robotically, improve training opportunities for surgeons, and ultimately, to help provide better care for patients.
Stay updated on the Hugo™ RAS system.
Sign up now to continue learning from the experts who are building best practices in RAS training and program development.