Cromwell Hospital has achieved another major milestone in robotic-assisted surgery, becoming the first centre in London to perform a single-port robotic colorectal procedure using the da Vinci Single Port (SP) system.
The landmark procedure was successfully carried out by Mr Ahmed Karim, Consultant Colorectal Surgeon, making him the first colorectal surgeon in London trained in single-port robotic-assisted surgery.
This advancement builds on Cromwell Hospital’s pioneering record in robotic innovation. The hospital was the first in the UK to perform gynaecology and hepato-pancreato-biliary (HPB) surgery using the da Vinci SP platform and has now expanded its programme to include colorectal surgery, placing it at the forefront of minimally invasive surgical care.
Installed in March 2025, the da Vinci SP system allows surgeons to perform complex procedures through a single incision or natural orifice, using an advanced console that provides a 3D view and precise, wrist-like instrument control within confined anatomical spaces. Patients benefit from reduced postoperative pain, minimal scarring, faster recovery, and reduced blood loss.
With this development, Cromwell Hospital is currently the only unit in London offering single-port robotic surgery across five major specialties:
This achievement follows the hospital’s introduction of the da Vinci SP alongside its existing multiport da Vinci Xi platform, installed in 2022, reinforcing Cromwell Hospital’s position as a leader in robotic-assisted surgery and patient-centred innovation.
Mr Ahmed Karim commented: “Performing the first single-port robotic-assisted colorectal surgery in London marks an exciting step forward for patients and colorectal care. Single-port technology offers a less invasive option with faster recovery and minimal scarring. I am proud to introduce this advanced technique and to support the continued development of robotic surgery at Cromwell Hospital.”