The University Hospital of North Tees has unveiled its new £4.3 million robotic and emergency maternity surgical theatre.
The state-of-the-art facility has been constructed on the hospital’s first floor, spanning the space above the atrium near the main entrance and supported by permanent columns from the ground floor.
One of the most ambitious estates projects in the history of hospital, the new theatre complex includes a cutting-edge robotic surgical and training space and a dedicated emergency maternity surgery theatre.
‘Robbie’
The robotic theatre is equipped with the Trust’s Da Vinci robotic surgeon, affectionately nicknamed ‘Robbie’ by a patient, which is controlled remotely by surgeons to enhance the accuracy and efficiency of complex operations.
‘Robbie’ was used for the first time on 28 July 2022 and has now been used a further 479 times. Previously housed in a cramped, adapted theatre space, the robot and its team of highly trained operators now have the space and specialist technical support to care for more patients.
The new emergency maternity theatre is close to the delivery ward suite and is designed to provide the best clinical environment to support surgeons in providing what are often lifesaving procedures.
The future
Stacey Hunter, group chief executive, said: “The new operating theatres will benefit hundreds of patients for years to come.
“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.
“I’d also like to thank the clinical team who have worked hand-in-hand with our estates colleagues throughout this entire project. I’d especially like to thank surgeon Anil Agarwal for his leadership. His advocating for the need for investment and his patience and guidance over the last two years has been inspiring. He has been instrumental in securing this new facility for colleagues, patients and their families.”
The opening saw plaques unveiled stating the theatres are proudly ‘dedicated to the population of Teesside’.
The construction project was managed by NTH Solutions with Geoffrey Robinson Ltd carrying out the building work.
Prestigious
Jordan Pearson, design and development manager, NTH Solutions, said: “It’s a pleasure to be involved in such a prestigious project for the trust. 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.
Worked diligently
Andy Talbot, Managing Director at Geoffrey Robinson, said: “This latest construction project for North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust represents another significant milestone in our long-term partnership. It’s fantastic to have been involved in this cutting-edge facility, which we know will enhance healthcare services for so many in the community.
“With our proven track record of successfully working within live hospital environments, our team has worked diligently to minimise the impact of our operations on both staff and patients throughout the project. We look forward to supporting more initiatives with NTH Solutions and the Trust in the future and continuing to make a positive difference.”
This development, which marks a significant milestone in the commitment of University Hospitals Tees, which includes South Tees Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust and North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust, to integrating advanced technology, will be treating patients from the week of 7 April.
Stacey Hunter commented: “The opening of the new robotic and emergency maternity surgical theatre is a sign of our dedication and commitment to providing cutting-edge medical facilities to benefit patients throughout the region.”
The Robotic theatre suite benefitted from additional funding from MUSICvCANCER and Support Your Bowel.
Charity contribution
Bowel cancer survivor Tony Larkin, said: “MUSICvCANCER are happy to have approved an investment of £30,000 to help complete the new operating theatre facility in the hospital built for specialist keyhole surgery for local cancer patients.”
This donation coincides with a further £10,000 from Support Your Bowel to help complete this important project.
Work will soon begin on the second phase of the theatre development, including improving staff changing facilities, increased storage and enhanced recovery areas.