Russells Hall Hospital celebrates 300th robotic kidney operation milestone
The specialist surgical team has carried out 300 procedures since launching its programme in 2023, helping patients access advanced treatment closer to home
A specialist team at Russells Hall Hospital has completed its 300th robotic-assisted kidney operation, marking a major milestone for the hospital's surgical service.
The Dudley Group NHS Foundation Trust launched its robotic renal surgery programme in 2023, bringing together specialist expertise and advanced technology to treat patients with kidney cancer and other kidney conditions.
Surgeons use the Da Vinci Xi robotic system to carry out complex procedures through small incisions, with the help of highly detailed three-dimensional images and precise surgical instruments controlled by the surgeon.
The minimally invasive approach can mean shorter hospital stays and quicker recoveries for patients.
Procedures carried out at the hospital include partial nephrectomies, where only the affected part of the kidney is removed, and radical nephrectomies, which involve removing the whole kidney.
The team also performs operations to remove the kidney and ureter for certain cancers, as well as reconstructive surgery to treat narrowing of the kidney's drainage system.
Russells Hall is currently the only centre in the West Midlands offering dedicated robotic-assisted renal surgery, with its robotic system available three days a week.
The trust is also working to bring more specialist kidney surgery together at the hospital. Renal services from Sandwell and West Birmingham have already been centralised at Russells Hall.
Mr Syed Shahzad, lead consultant for the robotic renal surgery programme, said reaching 300 procedures reflected the dedication of staff to improving patient care.
He said: "Since launching three years ago, we have built a high-volume service, developed specialist expertise and created opportunities to train the next generation of robotic surgeons.
"This achievement is thanks to the commitment and collaboration of our excellent multidisciplinary team, whose contribution is vital to the success of the service."
The trust is also working to offer pre-operative assessments at patients' local hospitals wherever possible, reducing the need for unnecessary travel.
Diane Wake, group chief executive of The Dudley Group NHS Foundation Trust, said: "This is a fantastic achievement for our trust and an example of how investment in technology, specialist expertise and teamwork can make a real difference to patient care."
The programme has also helped reduce waiting times for patients requiring robotic kidney surgery across the Black Country and beyond.