Tasmania’s first surgical robot has arrived at the Launceston General Hospital, promising to revolutionise complex procedures and improve patient outcomes across the state.
The $4.7 million da Vinci XI Robot, described as the most advanced technology of its kind on the market, is currently undergoing commissioning and credentialing processes before it begins patient procedures in coming months.
Health Minister Bridget Archer said the technology would enhance clinical outcomes for patients in northern Tasmania.
“This state-of-the-art technology will take LGH surgical services from strength to strength and improve access to the highest-quality care right here in the north,” Archer said.
The robot will support surgical procedures across multiple specialties including urology, colorectal surgery, gynaecology and general surgery, enabling more precise and controlled operations than conventional techniques.
Patients can expect better outcomes, faster recovery times and shorter hospital stays, which should also improve bed access and reduce surgical waiting lists.
With the announcement coinciding with Women’s Health Week, Archer highlighted the robot’s significance for women suffering from endometriosis.
“Endometriosis is an insidious disease that affects one in seven women, causing severe pain and even infertility,” she said.
“This technology will allow more precise gynaecological surgery, providing better outcomes for Tasmanian women living with endometriosis and other pelvic conditions.”
Health Secretary Dale Webster credited LGH clinicians for the initiative.
“Clinicians here at LGH came up with this idea and I’m told they started talking about it 10 years ago,” Webster said.
“It will have benefits for the whole state, for the whole Tasmanian Health Service and we’re looking forward to those first surgeries.”
