Watford General Hospital has celebrated its 100th robot-assisted operation.

On Wednesday, February 8, the momentous occasion received a visit from Watford MP Dean Russell.

The robots enable surgeons to carry out operations using minimally invasive surgical techniques in colorectal, gynaecology, urology and upper gastrointestinal specialities.

Watford Observer: Dean Russell said: It was a pleasure to celebrate this important milestoneDean Russell said: It was a pleasure to celebrate this important milestone (Image: Dean Russell)

Benefits include reduced post-operative pain and a faster recovery which leads to earlier discharge from hospital. 

Speaking at the visit Mr Russell said “It was a pleasure to celebrate this important milestone this morning at Watford General Hospital which performed its 100th robot-assisted operation.

“Robot-assisted surgery delivers great clinical outcomes and I congratulate the innovative team at Watford General Hospital on being the quickest in the UK to perform 100 procedures. 

“It is great to see a new surgical era underway with game changing equipment for surgeons and theatre staff.” 

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Mr Vanash Patel, consultant colorectal surgeon, is the driving force and vision behind the robotic programme at West Hertfordshire Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust.

All surgeons and their teams go through a comprehensive training course before carrying out robotic assisted surgery with patients.

This includes practising using a trainer simulator, online e-learning modules, as well as face-to-face mentoring in the operating room.