Southlake Health evolves its robotic-assisted surgery
Southlake Health has introduced the Da Vinci Surgical System, becoming the first hospital in York Region to offer robotic-assisted surgery using this advanced technology.
The Da Vinci Surgical System is an advanced robotic-assisted platform that supports surgeons during select minimally invasive procedures. Fully controlled by the surgeon, the system translates hand movements into precise, real-time movements of robotic instruments while providing a high-definition, magnified view of the surgical site. By enhancing visualization, precision, and control, the technology expands surgical capabilities and supports increasingly complex procedures through minimally invasive techniques.
The system is currently being used in urology and general surgery at Southlake, with plans to expand to additional surgical specialties, including cardiac surgery, through a phased implementation approach over time.
“The introduction of the first Da Vinci Surgical System in York Region is a significant advancement for surgical care in our region,” said Dr John Randle, Southlake Health’s cheif of surgery. “This technology expands our capabilities, so we can continue to provide patients with leading-edge surgical care, close to home. It also strengthens our ability to attract and retain top surgical talent, ensuring patients continue to benefit from the latest advancements in care.”
The introduction of Da Vinci builds on Southlake’s growing robotics journey, which began last fall when Southlake successfully implemented the ROSA Knee System to offer robotic-assisted knee replacement surgery. Today, Southlake is the only hospital in York Region to offer robotic-assisted surgeries using both Da Vinci and ROSA. Together, these technologies represent another step forward in Southlake’s commitment to expanding the use of advanced technologies to strengthen patient experiences and care.
Behind the launch was a carefully planned implementation process involving months of training, simulation, workflow development, and preparation across multiple teams. Approximately 50 team members from across Southlake, including surgeons, nurses, perioperative teams, medical device reprocessing staff, and operational leaders, worked together to ensure the technology could be introduced safely while maintaining the high standards of care patients expect at Southlake.
Dr John Preiner (pictured), a urologist at Southlake Health, completed the first successful procedure using the Da Vinci system.
“The launch of the Da Vinci Surgical System is the result of months of planning, training and collaboration across many teams at Southlake,” Preiner said. “This achievement reflects the dedication of many people across Southlake, from hospital leadership, nurses, and support staff to Southlake Foundation and generous donors.”
The Da Vinci Surgical System is one of several investments supporting Southlake’s vision to build a Distributed Health Network and expand access to specialized, high-quality care for the growing communities it serves.
Photo: Southlake becomes the first hospital in York Region to offer robotic-assisted surgery. (Southlake photo)