Ashford, UK – A retired engineer is among the first patients to benefit from a fresh era in surgical care at the William Harvey Hospital. John Tebbs, 74, recently underwent a bowel removal procedure utilizing the Medtronic HUGO robotic-assisted surgery system, marking a significant advancement in minimally invasive techniques available to patients in the National Health Service (NHS). The successful implementation of this technology at the hospital underscores a growing national push to expand access to robotic surgery across the UK.
Tebbs, diagnosed with pre-cancerous cells in his colon late last year, underwent the procedure on Wednesday, February 4th. He described his experience as remarkably positive, noting a quicker recovery compared to traditional methods. “It was my first operation, apart from having wisdom teeth removed many years ago, so I don’t really have anything to compare it with, but I was able to go home after two days,” he said. “There was a chap on the ward who had the same procedure the aged-fashioned way, and he had to stay for six days, so I think I definitely had a faster recovery.” His case highlights the potential for reduced hospital stays and faster healing times associated with robotic-assisted surgery.
Expanding Robotic Capabilities in East Kent
The introduction of the HUGO system at William Harvey Hospital builds upon existing robotic surgery programs within the East Kent Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust. The nearby Kent and Canterbury Hospital already utilizes the Da Vinci surgical system for urological procedures. The addition of the HUGO robot at the Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother Hospital in Margate earlier this year further expands access to this advanced technology within the region. Medtronic received FDA clearance for the Hugo RAS system in December 2025, paving the way for its wider adoption in the U.S. And internationally.
Consultant colorectal and general surgeon Mr. Ashish Shrestha, who performed Tebbs’ surgery, expressed his enthusiasm for the new technology. “I am delighted we can now offer robotic colorectal surgery at the William Harvey Hospital,” he stated. “This technology offers faster recovery, less pain and access to the most advanced techniques.” He emphasized the dedication of the entire surgical team, including theatre, anaesthetics, and nursing staff, in making the first successful cases possible.
A Community Effort Supporting Surgical Innovation
The arrival of the HUGO robot wasn’t solely a hospital initiative. Paul Scrivens, a fellow bowel cancer patient, and his wife Karen spearheaded a fundraising effort, raising £2,000 through a coffee morning. These funds were used to purchase specialized chairs for the surgeon operating the robot and to install two large wall-mounted screens in the operating theatre, allowing for enhanced visualization during procedures. Scrivens, who runs engineering firm Hatch in Charing, explained his motivation: “I wanted to say thank you to the whole department who have looked after me so well. Without them I don’t grasp what might have happened. I can’t fault the whole NHS system.”
Mr. Prashant Naik, who performed the first robotic procedure at the hospital, echoed the sentiment, stating, “I am proud that we can now offer our patients a new standard of precise, minimally invasive surgery with the HUGO RAS robotic platform, which improves surgical dexterity, visualisation, and control for complex colorectal procedures.” Senior surgical care practitioner Larissa Williams added that the precision offered by the robotic platform translates to “smoother dissections, less tissue trauma and greater accuracy,” ultimately benefiting patients through smaller incisions and faster recovery times.
National Expansion of Robotic Surgery
The implementation of robotic surgery at William Harvey Hospital aligns with a broader national strategy to increase its availability across the NHS. The NHS National Cancer Plan aims to significantly expand robotic cancer surgery, increasing the number of procedures performed annually from 70,000 to 500,000 by 2035. This ambitious goal reflects a commitment to providing patients with access to the latest advancements in surgical care.
Tebbs’ experience also serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of cancer screening. “Ironically, I had the bowel screening test through the post two days after my colonoscopy, so I would really advise people to do it, because you never know what is going on inside,” he shared. Early detection through screening programs remains a critical component of improving outcomes for patients with colorectal cancer.
The successful integration of the HUGO robotic system at William Harvey Hospital represents a significant step forward in surgical care for the East Kent community and contributes to the NHS’s broader efforts to modernize and improve cancer treatment options. The hospital plans to continue expanding its robotic surgery program, offering more patients the benefits of minimally invasive techniques.
Disclaimer: This article provides information for general knowledge and informational purposes only, and does not constitute medical advice. This proves essential to consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.
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