A new surgical robot has been installed at the Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother Hospital in Margate.

The robot, named Hugo, was first used by NHS at Guys and St Thomas’s Hospital in 2023.

East Kent Hospitals have been using da Vinci robots at Kent and Canterbury Hospital for 15 years, but this is the first time colorectal robotic surgery has been possible at the Trust.

Hugo has four arms that are operated remotely by the surgeon. One arm has a camera and the others surgical tools. Patients are left with only keyhole scars.

Consultant colorectal and general surgeon Mr Sudhaker Mangam said: “This marks a major advancement in surgical capability for East Kent patients, enabling greater precision, improved outcomes, and faster recovery times.

“I am very grateful to Sister Kelly Morgan and the wider theatre and perioperative teams for their outstanding support in ensuring this was a positive experience for our patients.

“The introduction of robotics means we can offer people minimally invasive procedures, which mean less pain, shorter hospital stays, and a faster return to their normal activities.

“These first procedures are the result of months of preparation, training, and collaboration across clinical, nursing, theatre, anaesthetics, estates, and management teams. It also demonstrates the Trust’s continued ambition to invest in innovation, workforce development, and high-quality care for our communities.”