The Friarage Hospital has completed its 1000th robotic assisted surgical procedure.
Consultant orthopaedic surgeon, Andrew Port from University Hospitals Tees carried out the landmark procedure at the Friarage surgical hub in Northallerton, where robotic-assisted surgery was first introduced 18 months ago.
Using 3D technology, the robotic system allows surgeons to create bespoke virtual models for each individual patient before their operation.
During the operation, the robotic arm is controlled by the surgeon in the operating theatre, giving them precise control of their instruments.
Transforming NHS care
Andrew Port said: “The investment in the surgical robot has transformed NHS care for the better.
“We can now create a plan that is bespoke for every patient and their individual requirements and plan exactly where we want to place the hip or knee while taking into account the size, shape and rotation, which just wasn’t possible before.
“Following surgery, we have found that most patients don’t require as much physiotherapy or rehabilitation and are back to doing the things they love, much sooner than expected, with many even forgetting they’ve even had surgery within six months.
“Not only this, but because our patients are spending less time in hospital, we have been able to carry out more operations and significantly reduce our waiting times, which demonstrates just how effective the surgical robot is.
“As we celebrate our 1000th surgical procedure, we are delighted to have been recognised on the Stryker database as the most productive and efficient NHS robot in the UK.”
1000th patient
After experiencing problems with her knee for years, Edwina Fogg from North Yorkshire had got to the stage in her life where the pain was so unbearable she was finding it difficult to complete everyday activities like walking and sleeping.
She was ‘honoured’ to be the 1000th patient to undergo robotic assisted surgery for a partial knee replacement at the Friarage surgical hub with Andrew Port in December.
She said: “My whole experience at the Friarage has been fantastic.
“My surgery date came through much sooner than I expected which was such a relief as I was really struggling to sleep most nights. The surgery itself was smooth and painless and the staff were all so kind and helpful and kept me informed of everything throughout.
“I am delighted that I am now on my journey to recovery so I can start getting back to doing the things I love without being in constant pain.”
“The surgery has had such a positive impact on my life”
Somebody who is already on her way to doing the things she loves following robotic assisted surgery is physiotherapist, Danielle Gash who underwent a partial knee replacement at the Friarage Surgical Hub in October 2025.
Danielle who works on the Gara ward at the Friarage originally injured her knee in 2009 and had to undergo a minor surgical procedure to remove part of her damaged menisci (cartilage) at the time.
She said: “The surgery has had such a positive impact on my life. Before the procedure, I was struggling at work and with the activities I wanted to do, such as walking my dog, cycling and keeping up with my family.
“Since my surgery, I have been completing daily rehab exercises, going out on walks, using my static bike and have even been videoing my journey in the hope to inspire others.
“I might not be at the front of the walking group just yet, but I know in time, I’ll be back up there.”