HCA robotics surgeon first to be trained entirely in independent sector

HCA Healthcare UK has become the first hospital group in the UK to train a robotic surgeon entirely in the independent sector.

Consultant gynaecologist Denis Tsepov took part in a specialist robotics training programme using the da Vinci® Xi™ System at The Princess Grace Hospital in central London.

The training programme involved a series of exercises, including virtual simulation training, e-learning, face-to-face training, lab teaching, and supervised patient cases. He was proctored by Tony Chalhoub – a national leader in robotic gynaecology.

HCA performed over 500 robotic procedures using the da Vinci® Xi™ System last year, including complex head and neck, abdominal surgeries and prostatectomies.

Following completion of his training in April, Tsepov has brought together a multidisciplinary team at the Endometriosis Robotic Centre at The Princess Grace Hospital – the first British Society of Gynaecological Endoscopy registered purely robotic private endometriosis centre in the UK.

Tsepov said robotic technology makes surgical work simpler and provides improved visualisation.

‘These are sophisticated and advanced instruments, which offer a huge opportunity for the gynaecological sector. I’m excited to be part of this new robotic era, and to see how gynaecological surgeries will evolve over time with their usage,’ he said.

Kathryn Oakland, head of robotics at HCA Healthcare UK, said: ‘To have trained the first robotic surgeon in the independent sector is a fantastic milestone in our established programme, and we will continue to do more in this space so that we can retain a leading role in patient access to innovation.

‘In addition to continuing gynaecology robotics training, there are plans for HCA Healthcare UK to expand its robotic training programme to include general surgery as well – including the treatment of colorectal conditions and hernias.’