Robotic-assisted surgeries have been successfully carried out in Cumbria for the first time.
North Cumbria Integrated Care NHS Foundation Trust said that the procedures took place at Carlisle’s Cumberland Infirmary.
The surgeries were performed using the trust’s new da Vinci Xi robotic-assisted surgical system, which has been nicknamed ‘Sirona’.
The system allows surgeons to operate using magnified 3D vision and controlled instrument movements.
Mr Chris Rao, colorectal consultant and general surgeon, led the first case following several years of planning, training, and collaboration across clinical and management teams.
He described the achievement as a landmark moment for the Trust and for surgical care in Cumbria.
He added: “This is a hugely exciting step for NCIC and something our teams have worked incredibly hard to bring to life.
“Robotic‑assisted surgery allows us to operate with a level of precision that simply isn’t possible with traditional techniques.
“That means less pain, fewer complications, and quicker recovery for our patients.
“I’m incredibly proud of everyone involved in getting us to this point, and I’m delighted that patients in Cumbria can now benefit from this state‑of‑the‑art technology.”
Lee Ellis, 43, from Carlisle, was one of the first people to undergo the surgery at the hospital after having gallbladder surgery last month.
He said: “When I was first told I would be having robotic-assisted surgery I was really intrigued! I work in research and development so it was something I was very interested in, and even asked to see it before my operation.
“Unfortunately I have had a number of different surgeries over the years, and I do feel like the scars are a lot neater this time and I’m recovering quicker than I expected.
“Overall I found the experience fascinating and I am so pleased I was able to have surgery using this cutting edge technology.”
The name Sirona was chosen following a trust-wide competition and honours the Celtic goddess of healing.
To prepare for the technology, surgeons completed more than 30 hours of digital simulation and specialist external training.
Theatre and anaesthetic teams also undertook simulation sessions, online learning and observational visits to other robotic centres.
The initial procedures are being supervised by external surgeons experienced in robotic-assisted surgery.
The trust said it planned to expand the programme over the next decade. It said a second robotic system was planned for West Cumberland Hospital, Whitehaven in the future, with more systems to follow.
The authority said this expansion would support access to minimally invasive surgery, help with recruitment and retention, and provide training for resident doctors.
