Specialist Urologist Dr Brighton Mashava has recently reached a significant milestone by becoming a certified robotic surgeon, a development that promises to revolutionise urological care across the Lowveld, Mozambique and Eswatini.

Dr Mashava’s passion for robotic surgery began while he was pursuing his Master’s degree in urology. As a student, he had the opportunity to observe complex robotic procedures led by some of South Africa’s most esteemed surgeons. Among these were Dr Kabo Ijane, Dr Hugo van der Merwe, Dr James Urry and Dr Marisa Conradie. These experts inspired him and set a standard that continues to guide his surgical practice.

During this formative period, Dr Mashava frequently travelled to Pretoria to observe and participate in robotic surgeries, gaining first-hand experience with these cutting-edge techniques. The realisation of his dream to perform robotic surgery closer to home was made possible through the support of Busamed, a facility that played a pivotal role in his certification in Mbombela.

To master this innovative surgical approach, Dr Mashava underwent rigorous training in the United Kingdom and attended world-class ERUS Robotic congresses in London to stay current with global advancements in robotic urological surgery.

Busamed is now proud to be the only hospital in the wider Mpumalanga region, Limpopo, Mozambique and Eswatini to offer robotic surgery with the da Vinci system – a groundbreaking achievement that significantly enhances the quality and precision of urological care for the many communities the hospital serves.

Robotic surgery in urology offers remarkable advantages over traditional surgical methods for the treatment of prostate and kidney cancers, among other urological procedures. It allows for minimally invasive procedures with enhanced precision, resulting in smaller incisions, reduced blood loss, less post-operative pain and faster recovery times for patients.

The robotic system’s advanced 3D vision and robotic arms improve a surgeon’s dexterity and control, which is especially beneficial in delicate procedures such as prostatectomies, kidney surgery and bladder reconstructions.

With Dr Mashava’s expertise now accessible in the Lowveld and neighbouring countries, patients can benefit from world-class care much closer to home, reducing the need to travel long distances for advanced treatment of this kind.

As robotic surgery continues to evolve, Dr Mashava’s dedication ensures the region remains at the forefront of modern medical innovation in urology.

Busamed is working with funders to grant other disciplines access to the da Vinci robot system. A list of gynecological procedures will now also be funded, assisting patients with improved clinical outcomes and enabling them to return to their normal daily activities much faster.