The Intuitive Surgical da Vinci Xi robot is the first of its kind to be used in a Manitoba hospital. (HSC FOUNDATION / HANDOUT)
Health Sciences Centre Winnipeg has unveiled Manitoba’s first surgical robot, the Intuitive Surgical da Vinci Xi, aimed at improving patient care through minimally invasive procedures.
Funded by the HSC Foundation’s Operation Excellence campaign and the province, the new technology promises quicker recoveries, less pain, and shorter hospital stays for patients.
“The da Vinci Xi, in essence, extends the capabilities of a surgeon’s hands and a surgeon’s eyes,” said Dr. Edward Buchel, surgery site director, HSC, and provincial specialty lead, surgery, Shared Health.
“The robot’s arms move better and with more stability than is possible for human hands; and the enhanced scopes and visualization technology helps us see even the smallest parts of the anatomy with extreme clarity.”
The da Vinci Xi is already being used for thoracic, gynecologic, and urologic surgeries at HSC. The machine’s four robotic arms and high-definition 3D visualization allow for precise, less invasive operations.
For 33-year-old patient, An Ji Li, robotic surgery meant a swift recovery from lung cancer surgery.
“Because of the robotic surgery, I was able to recover faster and focus on what really matters: getting better and moving forward,” said Li, in a statement.
Medical leaders say the technology will also help recruit top doctors to Manitoba.
“The robot is a game changer for our patients and our recruitment efforts,” added Dr. Buchel.
Watch Monday’s news conference:
