Ramsay Newsroom

Since launching the state's first robotic surgery program in 2008, Greenslopes Private Hospital has helped shape the adoption of the technology across Queensland, completing more than 10,000 procedures over the past 18 years.

Greenslopes Private Hospital CEO, Justin Greenwell, said when the technology was first introduced, robotic surgery was still in its infancy in Australia, and many people were unsure what robotic-assisted surgery would mean for patients.

“To establish the program, Greenslopes Private Hospital sent surgeons and theatre staff to the United States for specialised training, laying the foundations for what would become one of Australia's most experienced robotic surgery programs,” Mr Greenwell said.

"Four of the five surgeons who helped pioneer robotic surgery at Greenslopes in 2008 are still practising at the hospital today, highlighting the depth of experience that has been built over nearly two decades.”

Mr Greenwell said the milestone reflected the hospital's long-standing commitment to innovation and delivering world-class care for Queensland patients.

"Today, robotic surgery is widely accepted as a standard of care for many procedures and has become an important part of modern surgical care,” he said. 

"We are incredibly proud that Greenslopes Private Hospital introduced robotic surgery to Queensland and helped pave the way for its widespread adoption across the state.”

"Reaching 10,000 procedures is a testament to the vision of our pioneering surgeons and the dedication of our theatre, nursing and support teams over nearly two decades."

The Da Vinci Surgical System allows surgeons to perform complex procedures through small incisions using highly precise robotic instruments controlled from a surgical console. The technology can provide enhanced visualisation, greater dexterity and increased precision, helping surgeons perform a range of complex procedures.

For patients, robotic-assisted surgery can offer potential benefits including smaller incisions, reduced blood loss, less pain, shorter hospital stays and faster recovery times.

Since the first procedures were performed at Greenslopes Private Hospital, robotic surgery has expanded significantly across Australia and is now used in specialties including urology, colorectal surgery, gynaecology, thoracic surgery and general surgery.

Today, Greenslopes Private Hospital remains one of Australia's most experienced robotic surgery centres and continues to invest in advanced technologies and techniques to improve patient care.