Port Macquarie Private Hospital is now offering hysterectomies performed by Dr da Vinci.
Port Macquarie Private Hospital has expanded the use of its da Vinci robot into the gynaecology department.
Obstetrician and gynaecologist Dr Masih Ashrafy recently performed the hospital’s first gynaecological surgery using the robot.
The hysterectomy and bilateral salpingectomy were carried out with the support of Dr Dean Conrad from Ramsay’s Kareena Private Hospital in Sydney.
Dr Ashrafy said the robot was designed to improve the surgical experience and recovery time for patients.
“The robot allows us to perform surgeries with minimal invasion which can mean shorter hospital stays and a less painful recovery for patients,” he said.
“Once trained, surgeons can use it for many gynaecological surgeries, offering a new option for traditional procedures. This is a great opportunity for patients who want to have minimally invasive gynaecological procedures close to home.”
The da Vinci robot has been at Port Macquarie Private Hospital since 2020 and has previously been used for urology and general surgery procedures.
Port Macquarie Private Hospital CEO Moira Finch said she was pleased the robot could also be used to benefit patients needing gynaecological procedures.
“Port Macquarie Private Hospital has invested in technology designed to improve patient experience and outcomes,” she said.
“I’m delighted even more local community members can benefit from this state-of-the-art technology in their own region.”
The da Vinci robot was developed by Californian-based company Intuitive, a global technology leader in minimally invasive care and a pioneer of robotic-assisted surgery.
Its various models are designed to help surgeons perform minimally invasive surgery, with high-definition 3D vision, magnification and robotic and computer assistance.
Its instruments include a miniaturised surgical camera and wristed instruments (i.e., scissors, scalpels and forceps) to help with precise dissection and reconstruction deep inside the body.
