North Tees unveils new £4.3m robotic surgical theatre
The ‘state-of-the-art’ facility, one of the most ambitious estates projects in the hospital’s history, has been constructed on the first floor, above the atrium near the main entrance.
It is supported by permanent columns from the ground floor.
The new theatre complex includes a ‘cutting-edge’ robotic surgical and training space, as well as a dedicated emergency maternity surgery theatre.
The robotic theatre is equipped with the Trust’s Da Vinci robotic surgeon, affectionately nicknamed ‘Robbie’ by a patient.
Controlled remotely by surgeons, ‘Robbie’ enhances the accuracy and efficiency of complex operations.
First used on July 28, 2022, ‘Robbie’ has now been used 479 times.
Previously housed in a cramped, adapted theatre space, the robot and its team of highly trained operators now have the space and specialist technical support to care for more patients.
The new emergency maternity theatre is close to the delivery ward suite and is designed to provide the best clinical environment to support surgeons in providing what are often lifesaving procedures.
Stacey Hunter, group chief executive, said: “The new operating theatres will benefit hundreds of patients for years to come. Robotic surgery is the future.
“It’s often much quicker and less intrusive for patients, resulting in reduced post-surgery length of stay.
“The new emergency maternity theatre is right next to the delivery suite.
“Any woman needing urgent surgery during labour will now be able to get that surgery instantly.”
The construction project was managed by NTH Solutions with Geoffrey Robinson Ltd carrying out the building work.
Jordan Pearson, design and development manager at NTH Solutions, said: “It’s a pleasure to be involved in such a prestigious project for the trust.
“The initial discussions for this project commenced back in 2022 so it is great to see what started as a drawing on a piece of paper, come to fruition.”
Andy Talbot, managing director at Geoffrey Robinson, said: “This latest construction project for North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust represents another significant milestone in our long-term partnership.
“It’s fantastic to have been involved in this cutting-edge facility, which we know will enhance healthcare services for so many in the community.”
This development marks a significant milestone in the commitment of University Hospitals Tees, which includes South Tees Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust and North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust, to integrating advanced technology.
The facility will be treating patients from the week of April 7.
Stacey Hunter said: “The opening of the new robotic and emergency maternity surgical theatre is a sign of our dedication and commitment to providing cutting-edge medical facilities to benefit patients throughout the region.”
The robotic theatre suite benefitted from additional funding from MUSICvCANCER and Support Your Bowel.
Bowel cancer survivor Tony Larkin said: “MUSICvCANCER are happy to have approved an investment of £30,000 to help complete the new operating theatre facility in the hospital built for specialist keyhole surgery for local cancer patients.”
This donation coincides with a further £10,000 from Support Your Bowel to help complete this important project.
Work will soon begin on the second phase of the theatre development, including improving staff changing facilities, increased storage and enhanced recovery areas.
