NEW robotic technology at a Glasgow hospital has helped save the lives of more than 40 men with prostate cancer in months.
Around 350 operations will be carried out using the £1.9million Da Vinci Xi robot every year.
Until recently, men with prostate cancer had few surgery choices, which predominantly involved an open prostatectomy, involving large incisions, higher blood loss and a long period of convalescence.
The technology means patients can go back to the ward without the need for drips or morphine. They’re able to eat and drink the same evening and most can get up the next day and shower themselves.
Generally, patients are released from hospital within a couple of days and return to a fully active life within four weeks. The technology is also better able to preserve male fertility.
Consultant Urologist Mr Hasan Qazi said: “Until recently, men with prostate cancer had few surgery choices, which predominantly involved an open prostatectomy, involving large incisions, higher blood loss, slower return to continence and in general, a longer period of convalescence.
“With the new state of the art Da-Vinci Xi Dual console system at the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital, we hope to facilitate better results for men undergoing radical prostatectomy, in getting them cancer free and continent early after surgery and where possible, preserving potency.
"This represents a huge development for Cancer Surgery in Scotland.”
Health Secretary Shona Robison said: “Our investment of £1 million towards this state-of-the-art technology in Glasgow will further ensure men have access to the most advanced treatment available, as well as leading to shorter lengths of stay in hospital and a speedy return to everyday life.
“This funding follows on from our previous investment of £1 million to assist NHS Grampian with purchasing a robot for Aberdeen Royal Infirmary. Plans are also being explored for a robot in the east of Scotland, with the Scottish Government committing up to £1 million for this future initiative.
“We have seen a welcome increase in the number of men surviving prostate cancer in recent of years, and our investment in robot- assisted prostate cancer surgery is aimed at helping improve functional outcomes and increase the survival rate even further.”
Robert Wilson, Chairman of Prostate Scotland said: “Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men in Scotland and it is therefore great news that soon men in the West of Scotland will have access to robot assisted surgery for prostate cancer and we welcome this significant step forward in treatment options for men with prostate cancer.
“We are pleased to have been able, through our Blue Horizon Robot Appeal, to make a contribution towards the equipment costs for the robotic programme in the West and would like to thank our many donors for their support towards this.”
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