Netcare Waterfall City Hospital surgeons perform four colorectal surgeries
The advantages for patients associated with robotic-assisted technology include improved long-term clinical outcomes and disease management.
The Da Vinci robotic system is designed as a tool assisting surgeons to perform intricate surgeries within the body.
Two local surgeons recently completed specialised training for robotic-assisted colorectal procedures at Netcare Waterfall City Hospital.
General and bariatric surgeon Dr Sudha Naidoo and general surgeon Dr Bhavesh Gordhan completed four colorectal procedures using the Da Vinci robotic surgical system, with proctor and head of minimal access and robotic colorectal surgery at the European Academy of Robotic Colorectal Surgery, Professor Amjad Pravaiz of Poole Hospital NHS Trust in the United Kingdom.
According to the doctors, robotics in colorectal surgery promises to further enhance the benefits of minimally invasive options for treating rectal prolapse, diverticulitis, bowel blockages, colon cancer, and other colon-related conditions in South Africa.
The robotic system provides a three-dimensional high-definition view of the area being operated on, which the surgeons can magnify up to 10 times to see tiny structures much clearer than the naked eye, for greater accuracy.
“As there are so many delicate and interconnected structures surrounding the colorectal area in a person’s body, the Da Vinci Si system can be particularly helpful for certain intricate and highly complex surgical interventions. The slender, dexterous instruments enter the skin through several small punctures far less invasively than is possible with traditional surgery and going beyond what the human hand can achieve,” Gordhan explained.
The surgeries performed included a low anterior resection for rectal cancer, sigmoidectomies for patients with complicated diverticular disease, and a rectopexy to correct rectal prolapse. “We are pleased to be able to extend the options for patients in need of such procedures. Internationally, Da Vinci robotic-assisted colorectal procedures are showing quicker recovery times and shorter hospital stays for many patients, which helps to minimise time off work and get people back to everyday life sooner,” said Naidoo.
The advantages for patients associated with robotic-assisted technology include improved long-term clinical outcomes and disease management, including a reduced recurrence of cancer and potential for complications such as anastomotic leak and unintended bowel damage.
Jaco du Preez, general manager of Netcare, commended Gordhan and Naidoo for their dedication to enhancing the skills and tools available to treat uncomfortable and potentially life-threatening colorectal conditions.
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