Robotic Surgery Begins at Royal Alexandra Hospital, Transforming Care for Scottish Patients

The Royal Alexandra Hospital (RAH) in Paisley has performed its first robotic-assisted operation using the da Vinci Xi system, transferred from Glasgow. The inaugural patient, 83‑year‑old William Gillespie of Elderslie, had a bowel tumour removed, marking a new local service for NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde (NHSGC).

The expansion was funded by an £800,000 donation from two former patients and a £400,000 contribution from the Beatson Cancer Charity, enabling a dual‑console system that doubles capacity for colorectal procedures. The move is part of NHSGC’s wider rollout, which has now exceeded 5,000 robotic procedures across its hospitals, with other health boards also planning similar services.

Robotic surgery offers smaller incisions, faster recovery and reduced complications. Patients like Gillespie benefit from pre‑habilitation programmes at the hospital’s Apple Clinic, which improve fitness and readiness for surgery. Clinicians say the technology improves precision and may help shorten waiting lists across Scotland.