SURGEONS at Solihull Hospital have celebrated its 300th robotic-assisted operation.
Urology consultants, John Parkin, Ather Abdelbaky, and Keval Patel carried out the milestone urology procedure to remove Anthony Bates prostate following a cancer diagnosis in late 2022.
The trio started this type of surgery in March following the Covid-19 pandemic, with support from the theatre team.
The robots allow surgeons to carry out operations using minimally invasive techniques and offers a speedier recovery.
Anthony said: “When I was diagnosed with prostate cancer and given the options, it was a ‘no-brainer’ to have the prostate removed. And the robotic technology meant it would be a less invasive operation, so I’d recover quicker.
“All of the team involved in my diagnosis and following treatment have been fantastic. It was explained to me that the robotic surgery would involve making six small cuts in the stomach. This was less invasive than in traditional surgery, which would mean I’d recover more quickly and go home sooner.
“The technology is amazing. A day after surgery on December 6, I went home, and was able to enjoy Christmas with my family.”
The 61-year-old added that it was down to luck that he went to the GP when he did after hearing a radio interview with ex-Birmingham City footballer, Mick Harford, who was diagnosed with prostate cancer in late 2020 and some of the symptoms he was describing sounded familiar.
Anthony said: “I’d initially put symptoms, such as a weak urine flow, down to age. I went for a blood test and examination, where a lesion was found. I then had an MRI scan and biopsy at Solihull Hospital.
“When I was contacted by a specialist nurse to say I had prostate cancer, I was so surprised that I passed out due to the shock. But the team went through my options, and as the cancer was contained in the prostate, I’m hopeful its removal will result in me being cancer-free.”
Mr Patel said: “I’m extremely proud that we have reached this milestone and of the team for the determination and efforts they make to provide the best possible treatment and care for patients like Anthony.
“As a result, of the robotic system, the procedure is much more accurate, and for the patient, they are in less pain after the operation, and able to recover and get back to daily activities much more quickly.
“We now carry out robotic urology procedures twice a day, three times a week, so are reducing length of hospital stays, as well as waiting lists, and ensuring patients with a cancer diagnosis receive the life-saving treatment they need sooner.”
