Robotic Surgery Arrives at Ealing Hospital
Will be focused on procedures such as hernia repair and gallbladder operations
The Ealing surgery team with its new robot
April 1, 2026
Ealing Hospital has entered a new era of surgical innovation with the arrival of a state-of-the-art robotic system, dramatically expanding access to advanced, minimally invasive procedures for patients across the trust.
London North West University Healthcare Trust (LNWH) has taken delivery of two Intuitive Da Vinci surgical robots, with the second one based at Northwick Park Hospital. A third robotic platform is already in use at Central Middlesex Hospital, where it supports specialist colorectal surgery. Surgeons and theatre teams are now undergoing intensive training, with the first procedures scheduled to take place later this month.
The investment marks a major milestone for LNWH, positioning the trust at the forefront of NHS surgical innovation and transforming the way complex operations are delivered. Robotic-assisted surgery allows clinicians to perform procedures with enhanced precision, smaller incisions and greater control, leading to faster recovery times, reduced pain and shorter hospital stays.
Oscar Smyth, Senior Transformation Lead, said the new technology will significantly increase the number of patients benefiting from minimally invasive surgery. “We are planning to convert more than 700 procedures per year to robotic-assisted surgery across both sites by the end of next year, supporting the NHS’s national ambition to significantly expand the use of robotic surgery as part of improving outcomes, productivity, and patient experience.”
He added that the trust’s model is designed to maximise both clinical and operational benefit. “Ealing Hospital will focus on high-volume, lower-complexity procedures such as hernia repair and gallbladder surgery, while Northwick Park Hospital will deliver more complex cases across a wider specialty mix.”
For patients, the shift to robotic surgery is expected to be transformative. The technology enables more precise operations with fewer complications, helping people return to normal life more quickly and receive high-quality care closer to home.
Viv Sathianathan, Divisional Medical Director for Surgery, said the enthusiasm among clinical teams has been striking. “The response from our surgical teams has been overwhelmingly positive, with strong engagement from clinicians keen to develop robotic skills and be part of this transformational programme.
“Robotic-assisted surgery significantly enhances the surgeon’s ability to operate, offering greater precision, improved range of motion, and high-definition 3D visualisation. It also allows surgeons to work in a more ergonomic and comfortable position, reducing physical strain and fatigue during complex procedures, ultimately supporting better performance and improved patient outcomes.”
With three robotic platforms now in place and a growing cohort of trained surgeons, LNWH is set to become one of the leading NHS providers of robotic surgery in London.
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