Device Technologies, a leading provider of innovative medical solutions across Australia, New Zealand and Asia, has announced the installation of a significant piece of surgical technology at Royal North Shore Public Hospital (RNSH), marking a major step forward in equitable access for public patients across the North Shore, Northern Beaches and surrounding areas.

The da Vinci Xi is the most-widely used multiport robotic-assisted surgical system across the globe and is designed to support surgeons in minimally-invasive, complex procedures. With its advanced 3D high-definition vision, and precise, wristed instruments that replicate a surgeon's hand movements, the da Vinci Xi enables surgeons to perform delicate operations with greater accuracy and minimal disruption to surrounding tissue.

Prior to this installation, access to robotic-assisted surgery had been limited, contributing to extended wait times and access limitations for public patients in the North Shore Local Health District and surrounding areas. The arrival of this system at Royal North Shore Public Hospital bridges the healthcare equity gap, enabling more public patients to benefit from shorter hospital stays, reduced recovery times, and improved outcomes.

This milestone also brings increased training for surgeons as well as access to research opportunities across multiple specialties.

John Dyason, General Manager - Robotic Surgery at Device Technologies, says: “This is an exciting milestone for Royal North Shore Public Hospital. The da Vinci Xi is an innovative surgical technology, and we believe its benefits should be accessible to as many Australian patients and surgeons as possible.

“Royal North Shore Public Hospital has always embraced advanced medical technology, and this latest development further reinforces that commitment. This initiative marks a meaningful step in advancing equity of care in the area.”

Royal North Shore Public Hospital also announced that the machine will be named ‘Alexis’ - after a generous donation through the NORTH Foundation from the Estate of a former patient.

Alexis, experienced first-hand the care of RNSH after successful treatment years earlier. Her belief in technological advancement and commitment to greater equity of care will help ensure thousands more Australians can benefit from this technology.

Anthony Schembri, Chief Executive of Northern Sydney Local Health District (NSLHD), said: “The surgical robot will enable greater surgical precision and improved outcomes for our patients. It also enhances our ability to attract the very best surgical talent, who can now come to Royal North Shore Hospital to train with world-class technology.”

“Instead of being limited to their two hands, the surgeon controls four articulated robotic arms via a console. With 10x high-definition 3D magnification, it allows for extraordinary precision, dexterity, and visualisation. It means many operations that once required large incisions can now be done with smaller ones - reducing pain, shortening hospital stays and speeding up recovery for our patients.”

THIS PRODUCT IS NOT AVAILABLE FOR PURCHASE BY THE GENERAL PUBLIC.