\n The Institute of Robotic Surgery will bring together the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital’s (N&N) growing programme of robot-assisted operations, while providing a centre training and patient care.\n<\/p>\n
\n Its opening comes after two new state-of-the-art da Vinci surgical robots arrived at the hospital, doubling its robotic surgery capacity.\n<\/p>\n
\n The machines, which cost a combined \u00a32.8m, were funded entirely through gifts left in wills and charitable donations to the Norfolk and Norwich Hospitals Charity.\n<\/p>\n
\n Bosses at the N&N say the investment is already allowing more patients to undergo less invasive procedures, which can reduce pain and lead to faster recovery times.\n<\/p>\n
\n New robotic surgery institute opens at Norfolk and Norwich hospital (Image: Newsquest)\n<\/p>\n
\n The institute was officially opened by BBC Politics East and Look East presenter Amelia Reynolds during a celebration attended by hospital staff, patients, charity supporters and guests.\n<\/p>\n
\n Visitors were given tours of the robotic surgery facilities and presentations showing how the technology is being used to transform treatment for thousands of patients in Norfolk.\n<\/p>\n
\n During the event, Ms Reynolds also revealed the names of the trust\u2019s two newest surgical robots.\n<\/p>\n
\n Children from schools across Norfolk had been invited to enter a competition to name them.\n<\/p>\n
\n The winning names were Renew, suggested by Norwich School, and Curiosity, submitted by Horsford Mill Lane Primary School.\n<\/p>\n
\n The opening marks a decade since the hospital carried out its first robotic procedure.\n<\/p>\n
\n Since then, the programme has expanded significantly, with thousands of patients benefiting from treatments delivered closer to home.\n<\/p>\n
\n The technology allows surgeons to perform complex operations using small incisions, with the surgeon controlling highly precise robotic instruments from a console.\n<\/p>\n
\n Robotic systems can offer surgeons an enhanced view of the operating area and a greater range of movement than conventional surgical instruments.\n<\/p>\n
\n They are used to assist surgeons rather than operating independently, with every movement controlled by the medical team.\n<\/p>\n
\n New robotic surgery institute opens at Norfolk and Norwich hospital (Image: Newsquest)\n<\/p>\n
\n The new institute will support the continued development of robot-assisted surgery at the N&N and help to train future generations of surgeons.\n<\/p>\n
\n Hospital leaders said it would also ensure patients across the region could access some of the most advanced surgical technology available.\n<\/p>\n
\n Rachel Backshall, charity director, thanked supporters whose donations had made the institute possible.\n<\/p>\n
\n She said: \u201cThe opening of this institute marks an exciting new chapter for healthcare in Norfolk.\n<\/p>\n
\n \u201cSeeing the passion, expertise and innovation behind this programme has been truly inspiring, and it\u2019s remarkable to see what has been achieved thanks to the support of the local community.\n<\/p>\n
\n \u201cThe opening of the Norfolk and Norwich Institute of Robotic Surgery is a proud moment for all of us.\n<\/p>\n
\n \u201cWe have already raised \u00a33m towards our appeal and are now fundraising for a further \u00a3160,000 to help fund a fifth robot and expand access to this life-changing technology for even more patients.\u201d\n<\/p>\n
\n The charity previously invested \u00a31m in the hospital\u2019s second surgical robot during 2019 and 2020.\n<\/p>\n
\n Ms Backshall said its overall investment in robotic surgery would reach \u00a34.2m as a result of the latest fundraising drive.\n<\/p>\n
\n The opening also reflects the growing role played by charitable donations in funding specialist equipment and improvements across the hospital.\n<\/p>\n
\n The Norfolk and Norwich Hospitals Charity supports services at the N&N, Cromer Hospital and Jenny Lind Children\u2019s Hospital, funding equipment, research and facilities beyond those normally provided by the NHS.\n<\/p>\n