We’re taking a look at some of the stories that have caught our eye over the last few weeks, with a focus on robotic surgery, AI, imaging, VR, and other emerging technologies.
New training centre focuses on AI, extended reality, and robotic surgery at Cambridge University Hospitals
Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust is celebrating the launch of the Cambridge Digital Health and Surgical Training Centre, set to offer high-tech facilities and training in the latest emerging technologies to surgical trainees.
The new centre is home to the Shelford Surgical Training in Advanced Robotic Technology Programme (START), granting the next generation of surgeons access to tech including the Intuitive da Vinci, CMR Surgical Versius and Medtronic Hugo™ RAS systems.
Tim Mitchell, president of The Royal College of Surgeons, said: “Robotic-assisted surgery has the potential to transform patient care by enhancing surgical precision, improving visualisation, and supporting better operative outcomes, as well as enabling faster recovery and fewer complications. It is a rapidly developing area of surgical expertise, and the College welcomes initiatives such as the START programme that aim to advance training and education in this field.”
Virtual reality offers 3D images of the spine during surgery at University Hospitals of North Midlands
University Hospitals of North Midlands has introduced the “Magic Leap” system, which allows surgeons to view 3D images of a patient’s spine during an operation.
The technology is capable of merging multiple images from x-rays and MRI scans to create an accurate view, with UHNM hoping it will support around 600 spinal procedures every year.
Vinay Jasani, consultant spinal surgeon, referred to the system as “like having Google Maps in the operating theatre”, adding: “In spinal surgery, the margin for error is incredibly small, so anything that reduces complications and improves patient safety is a major step forward.”
Royal Marsden moves ahead with international surgical trial incorporating robotics, AI, and real-time imaging
The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust is moving ahead with an international surgical trial for prostate cancer incorporating robotics, AI, and real-time imaging, having recruited its first patient. Sponsored by US-based PROCEPT BioRobotics and supported by the NIHR, the trial looks to compare the performance of aquablation therapy with traditional surgery.
According to the trust, aquablation involves the use of a robotic, high-pressure waterjet with dual image guidance, allowing surgeons to map the prostate with ultrasound to deliver “precise treatment that is less invasive than traditional surgery”.
Three other trusts in the UK are also involved with the trial: Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust, Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust, and Norfolk and Norwich University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust.
Virtual reality therapy helps support young patients at Portsmouth Hospitals University
A VR initiative launched at Portsmouth Hospitals University NHS Trust is helping to support young patients in the emergency department, reducing anxiety and diverting attention away from pain during “challenging” procedures.
The initiative was made possible by the Portsmouth Hospitals Charity and funding from The Hospital Company. While the headsets are currently leased, the trust reports that their “overwhelming success” has led to the charity exploring the purchase of permanent equipment.
App offers access to speech and language therapy at Bedfordshire Hospitals
Patients at Luton and Dunstable University Hospital are benefiting from improved access to speech and language therapy thanks to a new app offering therapy options for independent uptake or for patients supported by a therapist.
The CueSpeak app is being used with inpatients on the stroke ward, with the trust reporting that 100 percent of patients “said they found the app beneficial and would recommend it”. Three additional licences have been purchased to allow its rollout to the stroke early supported discharge and the community speech and language therapy services for outpatients following discharge.
Oxleas NHS Foundation Trust launches new simulation centre
A new simulation centre has been launched at Oxleas NHS Foundation Trust, incorporating a clinic room, patient home, and debrief room, complete with live streaming and recording capabilities.
The centre was designed through a multidisciplinary approach, with aims of improving staff learning experience and helping to improve patient care.
Jane Wells, CNO, said: “Simulation provides a safe environment where clinicians can practice clinical skills, make clinical decisions and learn together, building competence, confidence and compassionate care. We are thrilled to have a dedicated space mirroring real environments and situations to take forward our scenarios.”
10,000 robotic surgeries completed at Royal Surrey
10,000 robotic surgeries have now been completed at Royal Surrey NHS Foundation Trust, with a special event set up to mark the occasion offering guests the chance to try out the robots first-hand, and masterclasses from experts to share learnings.
The trust’s first robotic-assisted procedure was carried out in November 2009, with hopes that the opening of a new Cancer and Surgical Innovation Centre at the trust’s Guildford site next year “will enable even more patients to benefit from this world-leading technology and the expert surgical teams at Royal Surrey”.
Deputy COO and associate director of operations for surgery, Jennie Price, said: “It’s been a great chance to celebrate the successful collaboration so far between the trust, clinicians, our supporters, charities and patients which has enabled us to achieve the 10,000 milestone. We’re very grateful to them all for being here, and for their continued support as we look to the next 10,000 procedures!”
