Robots are to be used to cut cancer waiting times and help speed up operations and treatment.
The Scottish Government is spending £20million on ten surgical robots to be used mostly in cancer treatment.
The Robotic-Assisted Surgery systems will be used in theatres in sever health boards across Scotland including in Greater Glasgow and Clyde and the Golden Jubilee in Clydebank.
The aim is to result in less invasive procedures and boost hospital capacity.
The robotic systems will be used primarily for cancer treatment, including urological, colorectal and gynaecological operations.
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Health Secretary, Humza Yousaf, said: “This new technology will transform the experience of surgery for hundreds of patients every year, while easing the pressure on surgeons with shorter procedures that are less physically demanding to carry out. They will also reduce waiting times and provide us with regular data so we can continue to improve our health service.
“Crucially, these robotic systems will help to attract a broader pool of surgeons to work here, so we can build a stronger NHS Scotland for the future.”
Claire Donaghy, Head of External Affairs at Bowel Cancer UK, said: “Surgery is the most common treatment for bowel cancer, which is Scotland’s third most common cancer, and central to curing the disease. But it’s often open surgery, which can mean a long recovery time for patients.
“Robotic-assisted surgery is less invasive and can reduce the time spent in hospital recovering by up to five days. We’re delighted the Scottish Government has invested in additional robotic-assisted surgical systems so more people across the country have access to this innovative technology.”
The robots use mechanical arms attached to cameras and surgical instruments, operated by a surgeon from a console within the theatre. This new technology makes significantly smaller incisions than required for traditional surgery, reducing the risk of complications, shortening recovery times and allowing hospitals to treat more patients.
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