The Groote Schuur and Tygerberg Hospitals in the Western Cape have introduced the latest cutting-edge robotic surgery systems called the da VinciXi systems, reported Spotight (28 June 2024).
The system allows surgeons to perform complex procedures with enhanced precision through a console that controls three robotic arms with tiny surgical instruments and a fourth arm with a video camera (the laparoscope). This technology translates the surgeon’s hand movements into real-time actions, offering superior range and visuals compared to traditional manual surgery.
According to Dr Tim Forgan at Tygerberg Hospital, a surgeon can see 10 times better with this robot than with the naked eye and therefore Western Capemanoeuvre surgical instruments so much better.
“Since the introduction of the da Vinci robots in 2022, over 600 minimally invasive surgeries have been performed, including colorectal operations, prostatectomies, cystectomies, and gynaecological procedures.
“The acquisition of the da Vinci systems, each costing R40m, was made possible by budget surpluses during the COVID-19 pandemic.”