Celebrating Robotic Surgery Milestones: A New Era in Surgical Excellence at Lakeridge Health

June 11, 2025

Our Stories

Just over two years ago, a sleek, high-tech addition joined the surgical team at Lakeridge Health—and it’s already transforming lives across Durham Region. Affectionately named Optimus, meaning “The Best,” by staff and the community, the da Vinci Surgical System has helped redefine what is possible in the operating room.

Now, the team is marking three major milestones: the 100th robotic-assisted procedures in gynecological oncology, thoracic surgery, and urology. These achievements reflect not only clinical expertise, but a deep commitment to patient-centred care and continuous improvement.

The program’s momentum has been strong since day one. Surgeries began in April 2023, and by November, the team had exceeded its Year One targets. By the end of that first year, they had completed 87 more procedures than projected—and another 51 above target in Year Two.

“These milestones are a testament to the incredible talent and teamwork across our surgical program,” says Heather Lithgow, Director of Surgical Services at Lakeridge Health. “What makes this even more meaningful is knowing how many patients are benefiting—recovering faster and returning home sooner, with fewer risks and complications.”

Each robotic procedure is a collaboration between surgeons, anesthesiologists, nurses, and assistants, working together to deliver safe, precise, and minimally invasive care. Here’s a closer look at the milestone moments:

October 22, 2024: The 100th robotic-assisted radical hysterectomy, the surgical removal of the uterus, cervix, and surrounding tissues, performed by Dr. Paulina Cybulska with assistance from Dr. Melanie Audette. Supporting the procedure were anesthetist Dr. Brittany Prevost, anesthesia assistant Patty Boyce, and nurses Emma Smith, Leanne Johnson, Swagya Kanaganayagan, and Tracy Storms.

March 24, 2025: The 100th robotic-assisted lobectomy, a surgery to remove a section of the lung, was completed by Dr. Daniel Sisson with assistance from Dr. Ikennah Browne. The surgical team included anesthetist Dr. Adam Puzio, anesthesia assistant Linda Battenburg, and nurses Amanda Broadley, James Jennings, and Lucy Franke.

March 26, 2025: The 100th robotic-assisted prostatectomy, the removal of the prostate gland, was led by Dr. Ernest Chan, with assistance from Dr. Jivan Gill. Also part of the team were anesthetist Dr. Nick Wisdom, anesthesia assistant Linda Battenberg, and nurses Emma Smith, Fatima Ali, and Lucy Franke.

The success of robotic surgery reflects Lakeridge Health’s broader commitment to innovation, equity, and access to care close to home. It also a program built on the generosity of community members like the Verwey family, whose $1 million matching donation helped launch the program, and the dedication of staff and physicians working behind the scenes to make these advancements possible.

With every milestone, the program continues to grow and evolve, bringing world-class care to more people across Durham Region and setting a strong foundation for the future of surgical excellence.