November 27, 2025 – St. John’s, N.L. – The Health Care Foundation, in collaboration with Newfoundland and Labrador (NL) Health Services, shared results from the province’s first robotic-assisted surgical program, highlighting measurable impact, improved outcomes, and the role of donor generosity in bringing this technology to life.
Since performing the first surgery in April 2025, more than 200 procedures have been successfully completed using the Da Vinci Xi dual-console robotic-assisted surgical system at the Health Sciences Centre. The technology is now fully integrated into surgical care, enhancing precision, reducing recovery times, and strengthening patient experiences across gynecologic oncology, urology, and colorectal specialties.
“This is what philanthropy makes possible,” said Paul Snow, President and CEO of the Health Care Foundation. “Through the generosity of donors and the dedication of our health-care teams, robotic-assisted surgery has moved from vision to reality, delivering real results for patients and redefining what’s possible for surgical care in Newfoundland and Labrador.”
The introduction of robotic-assisted surgery was made possible through an $8-million campaign led by the Health Care Foundation earlier this year. Donor support funded not only the acquisition of the technology but also specialized team training and full integration within the operating environment, ensuring immediate benefit for patients and long-term sustainability for the program.
“We are excited introduce the da Vinci Xi system as part of our ongoing commitment to advancing high-quality surgical care across our province. This innovative technology will help our teams deliver more precise procedures, support faster recovery for patients, and support more individuals to receive the care they need closer to home,” said Ron Johnson, Vice President of Digital Health, Innovation and Research, and Chief Information Officer (A) for NL Health Services. “We are grateful to the Health Care Foundation for their support and longstanding dedication to supporting local health services. Their support has played a vital role in making this important milestone possible.”
This achievement marks a pivotal advancement in surgical care for Newfoundland and Labrador and reflects what is possible when innovation, philanthropy, and partnership unite to elevate health care in the province.
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Quick Facts
- The $8-million campaign was made possible through the generosity of donors and the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador, supported by contributions from individuals, foundations and community partners.
- A total of 220 robotic-assisted procedures have been completed since April 2025, spanning urology, gynecologic oncology and colorectal surgery.
- Length of stay improvements are being seen for patients whose procedures are now completed robotically, supporting faster recovery and earlier discharge.
- Eight surgeons and 40 operating room nurses have received specialized robotic training to support the program.
- The average robotic system case time is two hours and 38 minutes, supporting efficient completion of complex procedures.
Media Contact
Samantha Harding
Director, Marketing and Communications
Health Care Foundation
T: (709) 687-9707
E: samantha.harding@healthcarefoundation.ca
