NHS Forth Valley’s robotic assisted surgery programme is already making a positive difference for patients, with more than 60 procedures successfully carried out at Forth Valley Royal Hospital since the new system was introduced at the end of May 2026.
The state-of-the-art robotic surgical system, officially named ‘Healix’ following a competition in the Children’s Ward, is supporting surgical teams to deliver complex procedures closer to home while helping patients recover more quickly and comfortably.
The first operations focused on routine procedures such as hernia repairs, but surgeons are now carrying out more advanced surgery, including bowel resections for cancer patients. Plans are also in place to expand the programme further in the coming months to include additional colorectal, gynaecological and urology procedures.
Early feedback from patients has been extremely positive, with many reporting quicker recoveries, reduced pain and smaller wounds following surgery.
One of the first patients to undergo robotic-assisted hernia surgery was Michael Cavin from Stirling, who said he was pleased with both the procedure and his recovery.
“I am very happy with how the operation went as my wounds were very small and I needed very minimal pain relief, so I was able to stop taking strong painkillers quite quickly.”
Walter Gibb from Grangemouth, who works for NHS Forth Valley as a Building Manager, also underwent robotic-assisted hernia repair.
“I’ve never had an operation or a general anaesthetic before so I was a bit nervous, but I know that this is the future and I was happy to be part of it.
“The operation went well and I felt well enough to go back to work after just two and a half weeks. I know other people who have had hernia operations who have taken much longer to recover, so I was pleased I was able to get back out and about so quickly.”
Meanwhile, Robert Keith from Clackmannanshire, the first patient to undergo robotic-assisted bowel resection surgery at Forth Valley Royal Hospital, praised the speed of his recovery.
“I was feeling a bit apprehensive as it is a major operation. However, I had the operation on a Tuesday and was discharged two days later, which was amazing.”
Although the instruments are attached to a robotic system, every movement is controlled by the surgeon using a nearby console. The technology provides a highly magnified three-dimensional view, enhanced precision and improved access to difficult-to-reach areas of the body, helping surgical teams perform increasingly complex procedures.
The programme is also creating valuable development opportunities for clinical staff. Two colorectal surgeons have already completed specialist training on the new Da Vinci XI dual-console robotic system, with further training planned across a range of specialties.
NHS Forth Valley expects to carry out around 200 robotic-assisted procedures in the first year, rising to approximately 400 annually by year three as the service expands.
Dr Julie Christie, Associate Medical Director for Women, Children and Sexual Health, said: “The introduction of robotic-assisted surgery has gone really well and is enabling staff to deliver high-quality complex surgery closer to home, improve outcomes for patients and further enhance their clinical skills and experience.”
Consultant Laparoscopic General and Colorectal Surgeon Mr Paul Hendry highlighted the contribution of the wider team to the successful launch, saying: “I’d also like to pay tribute to the whole theatre team for how quickly and enthusiastically they have adapted to the introduction of robotic surgery at the hospital.”
