Shropshire Hospitals Expand Robotic Surgery Service, Helping Patients Recover Faster
Shropshire’s leading hospitals are taking patient care to the next level with an expanded robotic-assisted surgery programme, offering faster recovery times and less invasive procedures.
The Shrewsbury and Telford Hospital NHS Trust (SaTH), which manages both the Royal Shrewsbury Hospital and Princess Royal Hospital in Telford, has extended its use of state-of-the-art robotic technology to include upper gastrointestinal (UGI) surgeries. The expansion follows successful robotic-assisted procedures in colorectal, gynaecology, and urology operations.
The enhanced robotic service now covers complex surgeries involving the oesophagus, stomach, gall bladder, hernia repairs, and weight-loss procedures. Surgeons control robotic ‘arms’ from a console in the operating theatre, performing intricate operations with exceptional precision. This innovative approach reduces trauma to the body, often enabling patients to return home the same day, and significantly improves recovery times compared with traditional keyhole surgery.
Dr John Jones, SaTH Executive Medical Director, highlighted the transformative impact of the technology:
“Since introducing robotic-assisted surgery in 2023, we have entered a new era of innovation in patient care. Expanding this service to upper gastrointestinal procedures allows our patients to recover faster, with fewer complications, and marks another step forward in transforming healthcare across Shropshire.”
Consultant UGI surgeon Mr Saurav Chakravartty emphasised the precision and clinical benefits of robotic surgery:
“The robot allows us to perform highly precise operations, enhancing outcomes and patient safety. Introducing this advanced technology for UGI patients is a significant milestone, and we are already seeing positive results for both patients and surgical teams.”
Robotic surgery coordinator Kat Sofio praised the team’s adaptability and professionalism:
“Introducing robotic-assisted surgery was a major change, but our surgical teams have embraced the technology with dedication. Their commitment has made the programme a success, and we are excited to continue expanding its benefits for our patients.”
The robotic-assisted surgery service at SaTH exemplifies the trust’s commitment to innovation in healthcare, offering patients access to cutting-edge technology, minimally invasive procedures, and faster recovery times. By combining clinical expertise with advanced robotics, the trust is improving outcomes and enhancing the patient experience across Shropshire.
SaTH’s investment in robotic surgery reflects a broader NHS trend towards modernising surgical services, reducing recovery times, and improving patient safety through innovation. As the service continues to expand, more patients will benefit from precision surgery delivered with the latest technology, supporting the trust’s mission to provide world-class healthcare to its communities.
