Redefining heart surgery: Sunnybrook’s cardiac robotic program

HN Summary

• Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre is leading Ontario in robotic heart surgery, using minimally invasive techniques to treat mitral valve disease, irregular heart rhythms and heart tumours with greater precision. 

• Robotic-assisted surgery is helping patients recover faster, with shorter hospital stays, less pain and a quicker return to normal activities compared with traditional open-heart surgery. 

• With more than 50 procedures completed and a second surgical robot now in place, Sunnybrook is expanding access to robotic cardiac surgery while training the next generation of Canadian surgical teams.

Sunnybrook is treating more patients than any other hospital in Ontario using a robotic surgical approach for mitral regurgitation, irregular heartbeats and heart tumours.

For surgeons like Dr. Derrick Tam, it’s gratifying to see patients have shorter hospital stays (three to four nights instead of six to eight nights), shorter recovery times and a speedy return to work and normal activities.

“Robotic technology makes this procedure less invasive and safer,” explains Dr. Tam, cardiac surgeon with Sunnybrook’s Schulich Heart Program. “Every step of the procedure, right down to placing the final stitches, is carried out with more precision than a human hand.”

Liz Jeanes was the first patient to receive robotic heart surgery at Sunnybrook, and the impact has been   life changing. She first noticed her heart fluttering, along with a tightness in her throat and low energy, last year. After she was diagnosed with mitral valve regurgitation, a common type of valve disease that makes the heart work harder, Liz braced herself for a long recovery after open heart surgery.

“I bought a reclining chair for my recovery and had visions of a long healing process,” says Liz. “I was prepared, but nervous.” 

When she was identified as a candidate for robotic surgery, Dr. Tam explained how the procedure would unfold. Liz instantly agreed.

“My recovery was unbelievable. My surgery was Tuesday morning, and I was home on Friday and feeling good. I was soon back in business doing what I like, and I even returned to work. My friends and family were all in shock at how quickly I recovered,” adds Liz.

With over 50 cases completed, the surgery team in Sunnybrook’s Schulich Heart Program says the approach is a major leap in innovation. The group is looking to train the next generation of surgeons by offering educational opportunities for clinicians across Canada. Recently a group of nurses from University Health Network observed a day of robotic cases.

“The 3D camera allows everyone in the room to have a surgeon’s view and see the anatomy clearly. This allows for better participation in robotic cases versus traditional open-heart surgery. Our entire surgical team is very proud to have built this program,” says Dr. Gideon Cohen, Head of Cardiac Surgery at Sunnybrook, who has been operating on patients with mitral conditions for decades. 

Liz’s health has improved significantly, and she says her energy is great. “I can do the things I love, like enjoying fun activities with my family and friends.  I’m retired but I am happy to be able to work part time in school offices. My advice for other patients, if you’re offered robotic surgery, you’re lucky and your recovery will be quick. Believe!”

Thanks to the generous support of donors, Sunnybrook has acquired a second Da Vinci Xi surgical robot, which will increase access to this innovative care. 

“Through this second robot, more patients, across multiple specialties will benefit from innovative, minimally invasive treatments that improve outcomes, reduce side effects, and shorten hospital stays and visits,” says Dr. Frances Wright, Chief, Integrated Surgical Program.

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