Wakefield Hospital expands robotic repertoire with second da Vinci Xi surgical system 

Evolution Healthcare’s Wakefield Hospital in Wellington has strengthened its position as a leader in robotic-assisted surgery with the installation of a second da Vinci Xi Surgical System.

The investment responds to growing demand for robotic-assisted surgery and will enable more patients to access minimally invasive procedures across a wide range of specialties, including urology, gynaecology, ear, nose and throat (ENT), thoracic and general surgery.

The expansion follows another major milestone for Wakefield Hospital, which celebrated its 1,000th robotic-assisted surgery just two months ago, highlighting the rapid growth and success of its robotic surgery programme.

Co-directors of Wakefield’s Robotic Centre of Excellence, Dr Anju Basu and Mr Rod Studd, say the addition of a second robotic system marks another significant step forward for robotic surgery in New Zealand while helping to ease network-wide capacity pressures.

“Not only is Wakefield the only hospital operating two da Vinci robots, but we have also built an exceptional team of clinicians with extensive experience in robotic surgery, supported by highly trained nursing staff and a dedicated multidisciplinary perioperative team, including anaesthetists, anaesthetic technicians and theatre staff. The additional system allows us to expand patient access and reduce wait times for life-changing procedures.”

The da Vinci Xi is Intuitive Surgical’s flagship robotic platform and the world’s most widely used multi-port robotic surgical system. Its advanced technology enables surgeons to perform a broad range of complex procedures with enhanced precision and control.

According to Dr Basu and Mr Studd, robotic-assisted surgery offers significant benefits for patients.

“Many operations that would otherwise require open surgery can now be performed minimally invasively with robotic assistance. For patients, that can mean smaller incisions, lower complication rates, shorter hospital stays and faster recovery, while maintaining excellent clinical outcomes.”

The expanded programme also reinforces Wakefield Hospital’s role as a leading robotic surgery training centre, supported by Evolution Healthcare’s partnership with Device Technologies, one of Australasia’s largest independent medical device suppliers.

Wakefield Hospital General Manager Carole Kaffes says the investment positions the hospital to meet increasing demand for advanced surgical care.

“Advances in robotic technology continue to reshape the way surgery is delivered, with robotic-assisted surgery now being used across a broader range of procedures than ever before. We expect demand to continue growing significantly in the years ahead, and this investment ensures we’re well placed to meet that demand.”

The installation of the second da Vinci Xi Surgical System reflects Evolution Healthcare’s ongoing commitment to advancing robotic-assisted surgery in New Zealand. Through continued investment in innovative technology, clinical capability and surgeon training, Evolution Healthcare is helping ensure more patients have access to world-class surgical care and the best possible outcomes.