A seven-year-old boy from Gosport, Hampshire, named Reece, recently became the first child in the UK to undergo surgery using a cutting-edge robot-assisted device. He was treated for a kidney condition at Southampton Children's Hospital, where the NHS is conducting a trial of the Versius Surgical Robotic System for paediatric patients. This technology, already successful in adult surgeries, is designed to enhance precision and improve recovery outcomes.

Reece's surgery, led by consultant paediatric urologist Ewan Brownlee, addressed an obstruction that impaired urine flow from his kidney. The operation involved repairing a narrowed vessel using the Versius system's advanced features, including small surgical instruments and a magnified screen for better visualisation.

The hospital aims for this technology to reduce recovery times, lessen post-operative pain, and shorten hospital stays. Reece's mother, Elizabeth, mentioned that although he was initially nervous, the prospect of a robot-assisted surgery excited him. His father, Ashley, noted the impressive recovery Reece experienced, emphasising the desire for the best possible care for their son.

Reece was discharged the day after his procedure, and UHS chief medical officer Paul Grundy expressed pride in their role in advancing this minimally invasive technique, hoping it will benefit more children across the UK in the future.