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St Vincent’s Private Hospital in Lismore has become the first regional private hospital in New South Wales, and only the second hospital in Australia, to introduce the Medbot TOUMAI® Surgical Robotic System.
The arrival of this advanced robotic technology represents a major leap forward in surgical care for the Northern Rivers, allowing highly complex procedures to be performed using minimally invasive, keyhole techniques rather than traditional open surgery.
“This is a transformative moment for healthcare in our region,” says hospital CEO, Peter Fahey. “The introduction of robotic-assisted surgery means safer procedures, faster recovery times, and improved outcomes for our patients—right here in Lismore.”
The TOUMAI® system will be used across multiple specialties, including urology, gynaecology, thoracic surgery, and general surgery, where the greatest growth in robotic procedures is expected.
Robotic-assisted surgery enhances a surgeon’s precision, control, and visual clarity through the use of high-definition, three-dimensional imaging and advanced robotic instruments that replicate natural hand movements while filtering tremor.
For patients, this typically results in:
- Smaller incisions
- Reduced pain and blood loss
- Lower risk of complications
- Shorter hospital stays
- Faster return to daily activities
The TOUMAI® system is distinguished by its force-sensing technology, allowing surgeons to feel tissue resistance during procedures—a first for laparoscopic robotic systems. It also supports 5G-enabled telesurgery, enabling expert surgeons to perform selected procedures remotely with high precision when clinically appropriate.
Building on a Strong Robotic Surgery Foundation
St Vincent’s Private Hospital Lismore has a proven track record in surgical innovation. The hospital successfully introduced the ROSA® Knee System in 2022, followed by the CORI® Surgical System, both of which use robotics-assisted technology to deliver highly accurate orthopaedic joint replacement procedures.
The addition of the TOUMAI® Surgical Robot further strengthens the hospital’s position as a regional leader in advanced surgical care.
Bringing World-Class Care to the Northern Rivers
By investing in cutting-edge robotic technology, St Vincent’s Private is expanding access to world-class surgical treatment for regional patients, reducing the need to travel to metropolitan centres for advanced procedures.
“This technology allows us to combine the skill of our surgeons with state-of-the-art robotics to deliver safer, smarter, and more patient-centred care,” said Mr Fahey.
St Vincent’s Private Lismore is a CHA Member
