North Devon District Hospital has become the first centre in the South West to introduce robotic technology for abdominal wall surgery, placing it among only a handful of hospitals nationwide offering the cutting-edge procedure.

Led by Professor David Sanders, the surgical team is using the robot to perform more complex ventral hernia repairs. Traditionally, patients undergoing this type of surgery could expect a hospital stay of up to five days while recovering. Thanks to the precision and minimally invasive nature of robotic techniques, many are now able to go home the very same day.

“This represents a step-change in how we can care for patients,” said Prof Sanders. “By using robotic surgery, we can reduce recovery times, improve patient comfort, and free up valuable hospital beds. What used to mean nearly a week in hospital is now often delivered as a day case.”

Christopher Gear underwent the TARUP procedure on 26 August 2025 (Robotic Transabdominal Retromuscular Umbilical Prosthetic Hernia Repair). Following the two-and-a-half-hour robotic procedure, Christopher was able to be discharged on the same day and is recovering well at home.

Patient Christopher Gear from North Devon talks to Professor Sanders about his treatment

The shift to robotic techniques is expected to have a major impact on both patient experience and the wider NHS system. Shorter hospital stays mean less disruption for patients and their families, while also easing demand on inpatient services.

North Devon’s early adoption of robotic abdominal wall surgery reflects a growing commitment across the NHS to harness advanced technology to improve outcomes and efficiency.

“This innovation is not just about surgical excellence,” Prof Sanders added. “It’s about rethinking how we deliver care, making it more precise, safer, and better for everyone.”

Professor Sanders and team in surgery & The robot is operated remotely from a console

The GI team have used the robot for 370 abdominal wall cases since it was introduced in summer 2023 and it’s also used for colorectal surgery at North Devon District Hospital. The robot is one of five used by the Trust, with three in use at the Royal Devon and Exeter covering oncology, ear, nose and throat, urology, colorectal, gynae and orthopaedic surgery and a further orthopaedic robot in North Devon.

This technology allows the Royal Devon to be innovative in the way we approach surgery, providing more precision and shorter recovery times for patients. It is also beneficial for recruitment, offering opportunities for staff to come and train in the latest surgical techniques.

This is just one of the ways the Royal Devon is delivering excellence and innovation in patient care.