NHS Ayrshire & Arran is celebrating the success of its pioneering robotic gynaecology surgical programme, which has transformed the care available to women across the region.
The programme was launched in July 2023 and has provided cutting-edge, minimally invasive surgical treatment to more than 250 women in Ayrshire and Arran, significantly improving outcomes and recovery times. An impressive 95 per cent of patients have been able to return home on the same day of their surgery.
Harnessing state-of-the-art robotic technology, the programme, led by Consultant Gynaecologist and Robotic Surgeon Dr Inna Sokolova, has been used to treat a wide range of gynaecological conditions, including endometriosis, fibroids, and gynaecological cancers.
This milestone comes at an especially significant time, marking International Women’s Day on 8 March 2025, as well as taking place during Endometriosis Awareness Month. The programme highlights the ongoing efforts to prioritise women’s health and well-being, reflecting both national and international commitments to gender-equitable healthcare services, including the national Endometriosis Care Plan and Better Cancer Care Action Plan.
NHS Ayrshire & Arran’s investment in robotic surgery is a key contributor to the importance of innovation and patient-centred care, paving the way for further advancements in women’s healthcare across Scotland.
Expressing her pride in the programme’s achievements, Dr Inna Sokolova said: “I’m delighted to lead the way for Scotland in benign robotic gynaecological surgery, and to establish NHS Ayrshire & Arran as a centre for excellence in robotic surgical care for women.
“This programme is a significant step forward in improving access to advanced treatments, ensuring that women in Ayrshire and Arran receive the highest standard of care closer to home.”
The success of the robotic surgical programme aligns closely with the Scottish Government’s Women’s Health Plan, which prioritises enhanced access to diagnostic and treatment services for conditions such as endometriosis.
By integrating robotic-assisted surgery into gynaecological care, NHS Ayrshire & Arran is meeting key national objectives, offering cutting-edge solutions that help to improve experiences and outcomes for patients.