Metropolitan Hospital, one of the most modern and technologically advanced medical centers in Europe, with one of the leading robotic surgery teams in urological procedures, becomes the first hospital in Greece to acquire the unique Da Vinci Single Port (SP) system. This represents the most recent and most advanced generation of robotic surgery, currently available in only a limited number of centers worldwide. With its acquisition, Greece gains access today to the surgical technology of the future.
What is single-port robotic surgery?
Conventional laparoscopic or robotic surgery requires multiple abdominal incisions for the insertion of surgical instruments. In contrast, the da Vinci SP system enables the entire procedure to be performed through a single incision, through which three fully articulated instrument arms and a high-definition 3D camera are introduced. All movements are entirely surgeon-controlled, ensuring exceptional precision, stability, and a true three-dimensional visualization of the operative field.
This technology offers all the advantages of robotic surgery while further minimizing surgical trauma. The result is reduced postoperative pain, minimal blood loss, and faster return to daily activities.
Why is the da Vinci SP unique worldwide?
The da Vinci SP system is the only single-port robotic surgical platform available globally. It has received FDA approval for urological procedures and has been safely used in the United States for several years. In 2024, it was also approved for use in Europe and is already operational in countries such as Germany, Austria, Switzerland, and Italy.
The system is specifically designed to operate in confined anatomical spaces, providing 360-degree access without the need for repositioning the robotic platform. This offers not only speed but also exceptional flexibility, allowing the surgeon to reach anatomical areas that were previously technically challenging.
What are the benefits for the patient?
Single-port robotic surgery is not solely defined by technological innovation but, more importantly, by the significant benefits it offers to patients:
- Enhanced dexterity and precision: Maintains the flexibility and independent movement of conventional multi-port robotic systems (EndoWrist technology), surpassing standard laparoscopic techniques.
- Minimally invasive and low-bleeding procedures: The single external incision significantly reduces internal tissue trauma and postoperative pain.
- Patient-friendly surgical access: Procedures are performed via an extraperitoneal approach and in a neutral patient position, reducing the risk of respiratory complications, postoperative infections, and position-related injuries.
- Suitable for patients with high comorbidity: Enables safe surgical intervention in patients with cardiopulmonary disease or prior abdominal surgery.
- Reduced anesthetic burden: Minimal surgical trauma and neutral positioning significantly decrease anesthetic stress, allowing safe procedures even in morbidly obese patients.
- Shorter operative times: Direct access to the target organ reduces operative duration and, in many cases, facilitates faster recovery.
This technology is of particular value for high-risk patients who, until now, may not have been suitable candidates for conventional surgical approaches.