Robotic Surgery Transforms Cancer Care At Mater Dei With Over 100 Procedures In One Year
Through the introduction of robotic surgery at Mater Dei Hospital, 104 procedures were performed last year to treat cancers affecting the oesophagus, stomach, pancreas, intestines and prostate. This was announced by Minister for Health and Active Ageing, Jo Etienne Abela.
Minister Abela explained that robotic surgery is the latest technology in the field of operations, revolutionising the way surgeons operate on patients. He emphasised that the use of robotic surgery has led to a reduction in complication rates and faster recovery times, while also enabling procedures in areas that are difficult to reach without large incisions.
Minister Abela also highlighted that an investment of around one million euros was made last year to carry out these procedures through robotic surgery. He noted that the number of operations is increasing each year, with the goal of reaching the full potential of 300 procedures per year within the next two years.
The Minister further explained that this year will see the expansion of robotic surgery into new disciplines. He expressed his desire for Malta to become a leader in robotic surgery for obesity treatment. He confirmed that gynaecological and ENT procedures are expected to begin this year, supported by an increased budget of over a quarter of a million euros.
“I would like to thank all the professionals who are crucial in making these robotic surgical procedures possible. Looking ahead, our commitment is not only to increase these interventions but also to continue investing in new equipment to further support Maltese and Gozitan patients,” concluded Minister Abela.
Dr Clifford Caruana, Clinical Chairperson of the Department of General and Vascular Surgery, added that robotic surgery offers significant advantages for patients. These include reduced blood loss during operations, shorter recovery times due to smaller incisions and considerably less post-operative pain.