Robotic Surgery Transforms Cancer Treatment for Vancouver Island Patient

Local medical professionals and community members are collaborating to enhance surgical care on Vancouver Island through the Victoria Hospitals Foundation’s new initiative, It’s Time for Surgical Evolution. This ambitious campaign aims to raise $21 million to expand the Island’s first surgical robotics program, significantly impacting cancer treatment at Royal Jubilee Hospital (RJH) and Victoria General Hospital (VGH).

The campaign represents the second phase of the Foundation’s commitment to improving surgical excellence across the 33 operating rooms at RJH and VGH. A generous $7.5 million matching donation from a local philanthropist will amplify contributions made during this holiday season. The Foundation acknowledges every donor, caregiver, and supporter who has contributed through various means, emphasizing that each effort plays a vital role in enhancing healthcare.

One inspiring story comes from Gerald Kersten, a prostate cancer survivor who credits robotic-assisted surgery with saving his life when traditional surgery was not an option. Living with a rare blood clotting disorder, Kersten faced significant risks if he underwent open surgery. His urologist, Dr. Michael Metcalfe, informed him about the capabilities of the new da Vinci surgical robot, which had been funded by the community. This innovative technology provided Kersten with a viable treatment path amid his challenging diagnosis.

Kersten described the moment he received his cancer diagnosis as life-altering. He shared the news with his wife, Lisa, and their family, navigating the emotional turmoil that accompanies such a diagnosis. The introduction of robotic surgery brought him hope, allowing him to consider an option that would not jeopardize his health.

The da Vinci surgical system offers numerous advantages, including a much shorter recovery time, reduced risk of complications, and enhanced precision during the procedure. Given his medical history, Kersten was relieved to learn that robotic surgery is becoming the standard of care for prostate cancer worldwide, further solidifying his decision to proceed with this method.

“We are so lucky to have this state-of-the-art technology on Vancouver Island,” Kersten stated. He highlighted the importance of receiving treatment close to home, where he could rely on his support system and continue his orthodontic practice without the need to travel to larger cities such as Vancouver or Toronto.

Kersten underwent surgery in July 2023 and experienced remarkable recovery. He returned to work within ten days and resumed cycling just two weeks post-surgery. In four weeks, he accomplished a 90-kilometre ride, culminating in a cycling trip to Italy six weeks later. He attributes his swift recovery not to luck but to the exceptional technology and skilled medical team at RJH.

“Robotic-assisted surgery allowed Dr. Metcalfe to operate through tiny incisions with exceptional accuracy, resulting in just four small, dime-sized scars,” Kersten explained. His experience reflects the high level of care available on Vancouver Island, where every member of the medical staff treated him with respect and compassion.

As a result of his positive experience, Kersten has taken on the role of patient ambassador for the Foundation and has become a donor himself. He passionately advocates for the expansion of advanced robotics in hospitals, emphasizing the potential for more patients to benefit from similar successful recoveries.

“Dr. Metcalfe changed my life, and this advanced technology saved my life,” Kersten remarked. His journey serves as a testament to the transformative impact of cutting-edge surgical technology and community support in enhancing patient care.