Kent Hospital Welcomes Robotic Surgeon 'Hugo'

Patients at the Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother Hospital in Margate, Kent, are now receiving surgical treatment using a cutting-edge, multi-million-pound robot named Hugo. Mandy Lee, who was diagnosed with bowel cancer, became the first patient to undergo a procedure with the new system. She expressed initial apprehension but prioritized the removal of her cancer.

Consultant surgeon Sudhaker Mangam stated that this robotic system represents a major advancement for surgical capabilities in east Kent. He emphasized its potential for increased precision, better patient outcomes, and accelerated recovery periods. Lee had part of her bowel removed and was reassured by reports of successful robotic surgery elsewhere in Europe.

Stanley Russell, from Herne Bay, was the second patient to have a bowel operation with the Hugo robot, having a small cancerous growth removed. He reported a positive experience, noting the team's clear explanations and the promise of less pain compared to traditional surgery. Russell underwent the operation on a Thursday and was discharged by Sunday, reporting steady improvement.

This development aligns with the NHS National Cancer Plan's ambition to significantly increase robotic surgeries for cancer patients, aiming to grow from 70,000 annually to 500,000 by 2035.