Newcastle-based urological surgeon Dr Albert Tiu recently etched his name in the history books.
In a major achievement, he performed Lingard Private Hospital’s 1,000th surgery using the state-of-the-art “da Vinci Xi” surgical robot.
The Merewether medical centre introduced the technology to the Hunter Valley in 2017.
And, it is now the first regional hospital outside of Sydney to achieve the milestone.
Lingard Private Hospital utilises the da Vinci Xi surgical robot predominantly for urological, gynaecological, weight loss and colorectal conditions.
For its 1,000th case, Dr Tiu performed a robotic prostatectomy for a patient with prostate cancer.
“Lingard boasts a strong team of very experienced robotic surgeons, across a number of specialties, who have all worked towards this feat,” he said.
“We are thrilled to have the option of robotic surgery for our patients here in Newcastle.”
The da Vinci Xi surgical robot allows surgeons to perform complex procedures through multiple small incisions.
The tiny robotic instruments essentially become the specialist’s hands, allowing for greater precision, less scarring and quicker recovery times for the patient.
Lingard CEO Andrew Mereau said the hospital would continue to pioneer the latest surgical treatments from around the world.
“We aim to be at the forefront of medical technology in Newcastle, as well as offering training opportunities for local surgeons who want to expand their skills and knowledge,” he explained.
“With the fantastic medical talent I see every day at the hospital, there is no need for people to travel to Sydney for treatment.
“Even in the most complex of cases.”
For more information about the robotics program, go to www.lingardprivate.com.au/specialties/robotics
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