The University Hospital of North Tees has unveiled its new £4.3 million robotic and emergency maternity surgical theatre.
The new theatre for North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust is one of the most ambitious estates projects in the hospital’s history.
Constructed entirely at first-floor level, above an existing courtyard and the paediatrics department, the extension is supported by permanent columns from the ground floor.
It now houses an advanced robotic surgical and training suite, home to the trust’s Da Vinci robot, affectionately named ‘Robbie’ by a patient, as well as a dedicated emergency maternity surgery theatre located adjacent to the delivery suite.
The suite is home to the trust’s Da Vinci robot, affectionately named ‘Robbie’ by a patient
‘Robbie’ is controlled remotely by surgeons to enhance the accuracy and efficiency of complex operations.
Previously operating from a cramped, adapted theatre, 'Robbie' and the team now benefit from a purpose-built environment with specialist technical support.
The robot is controlled remotely by surgeons and was first used on 28 July 2022. Since then, it has been used a further 479 times, significantly enhancing the accuracy and efficiency of complex procedures.
The build
The construction project was managed by NTH Solutions with Geoffrey Robinson carrying out the building work. P+HS were part of building the robotics theatre build as well.
Jordan Pearson, Design and Development Manager of NTH Solutions, said: “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."
“The nature of the work has meant that the disruption caused by the works has not only impacted just the operating department, but also the emergency department, maternity and the hospital switchboard. The patience and support we have received from all of these areas has been fantastic and is a good demonstration of collaboration between departments, ultimately to achieve a positive outcome for our patients and staff."
The future
Stacey Hunter, Group Chief Executive, said: “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.”
This development marks a major step forward in surgical capability and patient care provision for Teesside, and the opening ceremony last month was a fantastic way to celebrate the hard work of many different teams coming together.
Work will soon begin on the second phase of the theatre development, including improving staff changing facilities, increased storage and enhanced recovery areas.
Image credit: P+HS Architects
Featured companies
- Companies:
- Intuitive Surgical
- North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust