Charles Nicolle Hospital Spearheads Robotic Surgery in Tunisia with Revo-i

Dr. Ramzi Nouria, Head of Surgery at Charles Nicolle Hospital and Director of the National Robotic Surgery Center, shares insights into successful cholecystectomies and the future of robotic adoption in the region.

Robotic surgery is rapidly transforming from a theoretical concept into a clinical reality in Tunisia. Leading this charge is Dr. Ramzi Nouria, Professor at the Faculty of Medicine, Head of Surgery at Charles Nicolle Hospital, and Director of the National Robotic Surgery Center.

Following the successful completion of two robotic cholecystectomies using the Revo-i Surgical Robot by meerecompany, Dr. Nouria sat down to discuss the clinical outcomes, the transition from laparoscopy, and his vision for the future of Tunisian surgery.

Clinical Precision and Ergonomics

The recent procedures involved two cholecystectomies for gallstones. Reflecting on the experience, Dr. Nouria highlighted the tangible benefits of the robotic platform compared to traditional methods.

“Robotic surgery was more theoretical before, but now it has become reality,” Dr. Nouria stated. “We are very pleased and satisfied to be able to perform these interventions through robotic surgery.”

He emphasised the technological advantages that Revo-i brings to the operating room, particularly regarding surgeon comfort and visual clarity. “This surgery was performed with great precision, better 3D vision, and perfect ergonomics for surgeons,” he explained. “It is distinguished from laparoscopy by better visibility and better stability of instruments.”

Expanding Scope: International Collaboration in Urology

The momentum at Charles Nicolle Hospital has extended beyond general surgery. We are pleased to announce that Revo-i surgeries have also successfully begun in the Department of Urology.

Dr. Mohamed Riadh Ben Slama performed the first urological case as the primary surgeon. Crucially, this milestone was achieved with high-level international cooperation; Prof. Jongsoo Lee from Severance Hospital in South Korea visited the site to serve as a proctor.

Over the course of one week, the team successfully performed complex procedures, including Radical Nephrectomy and Prostatectomy. This achievement underscores the dedication and teamwork of the hospital staff and their global partners, marking a significant expansion of robotic capabilities in the region.

Success Through Training and Collaboration

The successful adoption of a new surgical robot requires more than just hardware; it demands comprehensive training and support. Dr. Nouria credited the seamless execution of the surgeries to a robust collaboration between his medical team and the manufacturer, meerecompany.

“If we successfully performed the two surgeries, it means the training was very sufficient and effective,” Dr. Nouria noted. The preparation included a rigorous two-week program in Korea, followed by on-site training in Tunisia.

He expressed his gratitude for the partnership: “This surgery was performed successfully thanks to the collaboration of the entire team and the assistance of meerecompany. I congratulate the entire team for excellent supervision and training.”

A Vision for the Future

Looking ahead, Dr. Nouria sees these successful cholecystectomies as just the beginning. He plans to expand the application of robotic surgery to more complex procedures, including colonic, rectal, pelvic, and hepatic surgeries.

Beyond his own practice, Dr. Nouria is committed to establishing a training ecosystem. “My colleagues and I underwent training in Korea to train Tunisian surgeons,” he said, outlining his goal to become a trainer himself. His mission is to disseminate these advanced techniques and facilitate the transition of Tunisian healthcare “from laparoscopic surgery to the surgery of the future, robotic surgery.”