CebuDoc Makes History with the Launch of the First Robotic Surgical System in Visayas and Mindanao

In a groundbreaking milestone that redefines the future of surgical care in the Philippines, CebuDoc proudly unveiled the first Robotic Surgical System in the Visayas and Mindanao, marking a transformative leap toward advance and innovative healthcare delivery.

This historic launch positions CebuDoc as a trailblazer in next-generation healthcare-not only in Cebu but across the entire southern region of the country. By embracing this cutting-edge technology, the hospital is bridging the gap between global innovations and local access, bringing world-class, minimally invasive surgical care closer to home.

Dr. Potenciano "Yong" Larrazabal III, President and Chairman of CebuDoc Group.

"This is not just about acquiring new technology; it's about transforming patient care," said Dr. Potenciano "Yong" Larrazabal III, President and Chairman of CebuDoc Group. "With the Robotic Surgical Program, we are ushering in a new era of minimally invasive surgery, one that empowers our surgeons, enhances safety, and brings world-class care closer to home".

The robotic surgical system enables surgeons to perform complex operations with high precision using tiny incisions. This advanced technology has enhanced outcomes in various fields, including urology, gynecology, and general surgery.

"This is not merely advancement in surgical technique-it is a profound reflection of our unwavering commitment to excellence compassion, and to saving lives", Dr. Yong affirmed.

The system uses a high-definition 3D camera, flexible robotic arms, and a control console operated by the surgeon. This setup allows surgeons to work with precision beyond what the human hand can do, while still keeping full control during the entire surgery.

"This advanced tool allows us to conduct highly complex operations with superior visualization, much better ergonomics, and increased precision via the minimally invasive approach," said Dr. Henry Chua, CebuDoc's Director for Robotic Surgery. "For patients, this translates to less pain, reduced risks, faster healing, and smaller scars.

"With robotic-assisted surgery now available at CebuDoc, patients across the Visayas and Mindanao no longer need to travel to Metro Manila or overseas to receive this level of care.

"CebuDoc has always led the way in medical innovation, and this milestone is a continuation of that legacy," Dr. Larrazabal Ill added. "It is a proud moment, not just for CebuDoc, but for every Filipino whose access to life-saving care is now within reach."

This pioneering move solidifies CebuDoc's role as a beacon of healthcare excellence, committed to transforming lives through compassionate care, cutting-edge technology, and relentless innovation.

Pioneers Robotic Surgery in the South: A

New Era of Precision and Patient-Centered Care

CebuDoc proudly marks a major milestone in Philippine healthcare by introducing Robotic-Assisted Surgery using the da Vinci® Surgical System, making it the first hospital group in the Visayas and Mindanao to offer this cutting-edge technology.

"This is more than just a technological milestone - it's a transformation in how we deliver care. At CebuDoc, innovation is always driven by our deep commitment to improve lives. The launch of our Robotic Surgery Program brings us closer to global standards, ensuring our patients have access to safer, more precise, and less invasive treatment options", Dr.

Potenciano "Yong" Larrazabal III explained.

This move underscores CebuDoc's commitment to leading innovation in the region and continuously elevating the standard of patient care.

Dr. Henry Chua, one of CebuDoc's core robotic surgeons.

"The da Vinci® Robotic Surgical System is a highly versatile platform that can be used across a wide range of surgical procedures," explained Dr. Henry Chua, one of CebuDoc's core robotic surgeons. "This includes Colorectal Surgery, General Surgery, Gynecology, Head and Neck Surgery, Thoracic Surgery, and Urology, he added.

Dr. Chua emphasized that the real value of robotic-assisted surgery is in its positive impact on patients.

Robotic technology offers several key benefits aimed at improving patient outcomes, including smaller incisions, reduced blood loss, a lower risk of infection, shorter hospital stays, and faster recovery times.

"This enables us to perform complex procedures with enhanced precision, resulting in safer surgeries and a smoother, more comfortable recovery for our patients," Dr. Chua added.

"While the term robotic surgery may sound futuristic, it's important to clarify that the robot does not perform the procedure," emphasized Dr. Andrei Yu, Chairman of the Department of Surgery and one of CebuDoc's core robotic surgeons. "The surgeon remains in full control at all times, operating through a sophisticated console that guides highly precise instruments via advanced robotic arms and a high-definition 3D camera."

Dr. Yu explained that while the system employs advanced technology, it is also designed to be user-friendly and comfortable for surgeons, enabling them to work more safely and efficiently in the operating room.

Surgeons in Training, Success Stories in Progress

CebuDoc has assembled a dedicated team of doctors currently undergoing specialized training in robotic surgery, both locally and internationally, to ensure the highest level of expertise in this advanced field.

"Using this technology properly requires special training and certification. "That's why CebuDoc has partnered with accredited training programs to ensure our surgeons are fully prepared to utilize this innovation for the benefit of our patients, ," said Dr. Henry Chua.

"Since the launch of the program, we have already performed 21 successful robotic-assisted surgeries, a strong testament to CebuDoc's readiness and capability to deliver world-class healthcare right here at home," said Dr. Yong Larrazabal III.

As a core surgeon and part of the pioneering team in this journey, I have witnessed firsthand how robotic surgery improves our ability to treat complex cases with increased accuracy and enhanced patient safety. This is the future of surgery-it's happening now, right here at CebuDoc," Dr. Henry Chua stated.

With this bold initiative, CebuDoc becomes the first hospital outside of Luzon to offer robotic-assisted surgery, making world-class innovation accessible to millions in the southern Philippines.

"This is not just a win for Cebu, but for the entire Visayas and Mindanao. We are raising the bar for healthcare across the region", stated Dr. Yong Larrazabal III.

About CebuDoc Group

CebuDoc Group is recognized as one of the Philippines' most trusted and respected healthcare networks, distinguished by its steadfast dedication to medical excellence, innovation, and compassionate patient care.

The introduction of the latest Robotic Surgery program reflects CebuDoc's ongoing commitment to advancing healthcare standards and expanding access to cutting-edge medical technologies for Filipinos nationwide.

For more information, please contact CebuDoc Robotic Surgery at 0918-946-7105.