Robot-Assisted Surgery: Coming to Cornwall

A major leap forward in healthcare is on its way to Cornwall. After years of determination, collaboration, and community support, Royal Cornwall Hospitals Trust (RCHT) is preparing to welcome its first Soft Tissue Surgical Robot — a milestone that will transform surgical care for patients across the county.

For the past two years, Rotary Clubs throughout West Cornwall have rallied behind an ambitious vision championed by Professor James Clark and Mr Nicholas Battersby. These two surgeons have been tireless in their mission to bring state‑of‑the‑art robotic surgery to Treliske, ensuring that Cornish patients can benefit from the same advanced techniques already available in larger centres.

Their persistence has paid off. NHS England has now allocated £2 million to the project, paving the way for the installation of a surgical robot at Treliske. As part of this investment, the manufacturer will train six surgeons ahead of the robot becoming operational — a milestone expected by early July 2026.

A Game-Changer for Patients

The arrival of robot-assisted surgery in Cornwall is more than a technological upgrade; it’s a meaningful shift in patient experience and outcomes.

Until now, many individuals requiring complex soft‑tissue procedures have had to travel to Plymouth or even further afield to access robotic surgery. For patients already facing the stress of major operations, these journeys add logistical, emotional, and financial strain.

With the new system based at Treliske:

• Patients can receive cutting-edge care closer to home

• Travel times and associated burdens will be significantly reduced

• Cornwall’s surgical teams will gain access to world-class training and technology

Robot-assisted surgery is known for its precision, smaller incisions, reduced blood loss, and faster recovery times. Bringing this capability to Cornwall means local patients will benefit from the latest advances in minimally invasive surgery without leaving the county.

A Community Effort Worth Celebrating

This achievement reflects the power of collaboration between clinicians, community organisations, and national health bodies. The Rotary Clubs’ sustained fundraising and advocacy have been instrumental, demonstrating how local groups can help drive meaningful improvements in public health.

Professor Clark and Mr Battersby’s leadership has also been central to the project’s success. Their commitment to enhancing surgical care in Cornwall has helped secure the funding, training, and support needed to make this long‑awaited vision a reality.

Looking Ahead

As installation begins and training progresses, excitement is building across the county. By summer 2026, Cornwall will be home to one of the most advanced surgical systems available in the NHS — a development that will benefit thousands of patients in the years ahead.

Robot-assisted surgery in Cornwall is no longer a distant aspiration. It’s happening, and it marks a proud moment for the region’s healthcare future.