Split Hospital marks 200 successful procedures using first-of-its-kind surgical system

(Photo: KBC Split)

ZAGREB, 6 Jan (Hina) – The 200th robot-assisted surgery using a surgical robotic assistant was performed at the University Hospital Centre (KBC) in Split on Monday, the hospital reported.

The system, which cost around €5.7 million, is the first of its kind in Croatian hospitals, the health institution added.

This advanced technology allows for minimally invasive surgeries, with the expectation of better patient outcomes, especially for the most severe cases.

“For patients, robot-assisted surgery offers numerous advantages over traditional open procedures: smaller incisions and less postoperative pain, reduced blood loss, shorter hospital stays, faster return to daily activities, and potentially better functional outcomes, particularly in complex urological procedures involving the prostate, kidneys, and bladder,” said Marijan Šitum, Head of the Department of Urology.

Šitum added that the surgeon retains full control over the procedure, while the robotic system enhances precision and ergonomics.

KBC Split Director Krešimir Dolić emphasised that performing 200 robot-assisted surgeries in less than two years has confirmed the Department of Urology, which is a teaching base of the University of Split’s Medical School, as a modern centre for advanced urological care.

“With robotic surgery and the recently launched kidney transplantation programme, Split’s urology has positioned itself among the leading urological centres in this part of Europe,” Dolić said.

The HUGO RAS robot assistant from Medtronic, according to KBC Split, is valued at around €5.7 million and is the most advanced robotic surgery system.

The KBC Split was the  first Croatian hospital to procure that robot system, and procurement was financed through the National Recovery and Resilience Plan.

The first operations were successfully carried out on 11 March 2024 and have been performed regularly ever since.