Royal Surrey celebrates 500th day-case robotic prostatectomy milestone | News

The 500th day case prostate cancer patient has returned home on the same day their prostate was surgically removed, marking a major milestone at Royal Surrey.

Stig Crook, 48, from Billingshurst in West Sussex, was well enough to leave hospital just hours after surgeons used pioneering robotic technology to carry out the procedure, known as a radical prostatectomy.

The day‑case prostatectomy programme was launched in April 2022 to avoid unnecessary hospital stays and free up vital beds for other patients. Previously, patients would typically spend at least one night in hospital following the robot‑assisted operation.

Wissam Abou Chedid, Consultant Surgeon, said: “Reaching 500 patients marks a major milestone for day‑case prostate surgery. Our programme is now one of the largest of its kind in Europe, and it is encouraging to see more UK hospitals adopting the pioneering approach.

“Being able to return home on the same day allows patients to recover in the comfort of their own surroundings, with support from their loved ones. This represents an important step forward in providing more patient‑centred care.

“This approach also helps us make better use of hospital beds and resources, meaning we can treat more patients efficiently while continuing to deliver the highest standards of care.”

Patients must meet a number of criteria to be suitable for same‑day discharge. Following surgery, they are assessed by the surgical team to ensure they are well enough to go home, and an inpatient bed is always available if needed.

Father‑of‑two Mr Crook was diagnosed with prostate cancer after a close friend shared news of his own diagnosis, prompting him to get checked.

He had a PSA blood test and within days of receiving the results, was contacted by the Royal Surrey team to undergo further investigations.

Mr Crook, who regularly takes part in triathlons and fitness challenges, was training for a half Ironman event at the time of his diagnosis.

He said: “It all happened so quickly. My feet didn’t touch the ground.

“When they told me the results and said it was cancer, I was absolutely floored. I was so shocked. I’m not aware of any family history of prostate cancer and I didn’t have any symptoms. I just didn’t see it coming.

“I’ve spoken to people who have been through the same thing and, a year later, they’re back to their normal lives, so I went into it feeling fairly relaxed.

“I’m amazed that you can have major surgery and go home a few hours later. It’s fascinating how they do it.”