Surrey Memorial Hospital welcomes a $5.5M robotic surgery system, promising faster recovery, greater precision, and expanded care starting this spring.
A High-Tech Arrival Changes the Game
Big news just rolled into Surrey Memorial Hospital—and it comes with robotic arms and 3D vision. A $5.5-million da Vinci Xi robotic surgery system has officially arrived, bringing the hospital closer to offering advanced, minimally invasive procedures right here in Surrey.
Although patients won’t see the system in action until spring, excitement already fills the halls. Health teams have unpacked and calibrated the technology, and they’re preparing for its debut while construction continues on a dedicated operating room.
Why This Robot Matters for Patients
Simply put, this system helps surgeons work smarter and gentler. With robotic-assisted tools, doctors can operate with sharper precision, smaller incisions, and clearer views of the body.
“As a result, patients can recover faster,” explained Dr. Ahmad Ashrafi, regional division head and chief of thoracic surgery for Fraser Health. “At the same time, we can perform more complex procedures locally, instead of sending patients elsewhere.”
Because the system supports minimally invasive surgery, it also reduces visible scarring and shortens hospital stays.
Surgeons Stay in Control—With Supercharged Tools
Despite the futuristic feel, surgeons remain fully in charge. They guide remote-controlled robotic arms from a console, while high-definition 3D imaging delivers crystal-clear views of a patient’s anatomy.
Therefore, procedures such as laparoscopic surgery become even more precise. Meanwhile, surgeons gain better control in tight or delicate areas.
According to Fraser Health, this level of accuracy opens the door to safer and more effective operations.
First Patients to Benefit
Initially, the system will support ear, nose, and throat (ENT) surgeries, along with thoracic procedures involving the lungs, chest, esophagus, and stomach. However, the program won’t stop there.
Over time, Surrey Memorial plans to expand robotic surgery into additional specialties, meeting growing demand across the region.
Building a Regional Robotic Surgery Program
Alongside the new technology, Fraser Health is launching a Regional Robotic Surgery Program. This program will focus first on ENT and thoracic care, where needs remain urgent.
Importantly, Fraser Health estimates the program will save more than 288 hospital bed days each year. Consequently, that efficiency could ease pressure on the hospital and improve access to care.
Community Support Still Needed
While the robot has arrived, fundraising continues. Surrey Hospitals Foundation has spent years raising funds for the system, yet more support is required.
“We’re still fundraising for essential equipment, calibration tools, and training,” the foundation shared. These resources will help surgical teams fully unlock the system’s potential.
A Step Forward for Surrey Health Care
“With this technology, we can operate using the smallest incisions possible,” said Dr. Oleksandr (Alex) Butskiy, a surgeon at Surrey Memorial Hospital. “That leads to better recovery and fewer signs of surgery.”
Ultimately, the arrival of the da Vinci Xi system marks a major leap forward. It boosts patient care, attracts top surgical talent, and signals a future where cutting-edge medicine stays close to home.
