Dr. Quoc Huynh (right) and Dr. Lazar Klein (left), esteemed surgeons at Humber River Health, have been instrumental in introducing robotic surgery for gastric cancer patients.

Advancements in medical technology continue to revolutionize patient care, and Humber River Health is at the forefront of this transformation. The Murphy & Helen Hull Robotics Centre is pioneering the use of the da Vinci Xi Surgical Robot for gastric cancer surgeries, marking a significant milestone in Canadian medical history. 

Dr. Quoc Huynh and Dr. Lazar Klein, esteemed surgeons at Humber River Health, have been instrumental in introducing robotic surgery for gastric cancer patients. Together, they are pushing the boundaries of minimally invasive surgery to enhance patient outcomes. 

“We’ve always been committed to offering cutting-edge surgery,” says Dr. Klein. “Robotic surgery allows us to take the next step in providing the best possible care for our patients.” 

The older robotic systems available at the time were not adequate for the complexity of these procedures. However, with the acquisition of the da Vinci Xi, both Dr. Huynh and Dr. Klein saw an opportunity. With the da Vinci Xi surgical system, Humber can now perform gastrectomies and other complex surgeries—including colorectal procedures, ventral hernia repairs, and hysterectomies—with heightened precision. 

“We started with colorectal cancer surgeries, where the da Vinci Xi has a proven track record,” explains Dr. Huynh. “The success there encouraged us to explore its potential for gastric cancer surgeries.” In May 2023, Humber completed its first gastrectomy utilizing the da Vinci Xi thanks to Dr. Huynh, Dr. Klein, and their skilled team. 

In May 2023, Humber completed its first gastrectomy utilizing the da Vinci Xi thanks to Dr. Huynh, Dr. Klein, and their skilled team.

Gastric cancer surgeries are inherently challenging due to the need for extensive lymph node removal—a procedure known as a D2 gastrectomy. Humber River Health had been performing D2 gastrectomies laparoscopically, but the da Vinci Xi offers the potential for even greater precision. 

The da Vinci Xi offers several benefits: 

• Enhanced Visualization: The system provides ultra-high-definition 3D visuals, allowing surgeons to see fine details with exceptional clarity. 

• Greater Dexterity: Robotic instruments have wristed joints, enabling movements similar to the human hand but with greater precision. 

• Stable Platform: The robot’s stability reduces surgeon fatigue and allows for meticulous dissection. 

“The da Vinci Xi makes it easier for us to achieve our surgical objectives with more precision,” notes Dr. Klein. “In tight spaces or complex areas, it’s a game-changer.” 

Humber River Health has a long-standing reputation for being ahead of the curve in gastric cancer treatment. In 2017, Dr. Klein was part of a panel that wrote the guidelines for gastric cancer surgery in Ontario, advocating for the adoption of the D2 gastrectomy as the standard procedure. 

“We’ve taken gastric cancer treatment as far as we can laparoscopically,” explains Dr. Klein. “The robot allows us to push the envelope further.” 

The Murphy & Helen Hull Robotics Centre’s support has been instrumental in this journey. “Most surgeons have to fight against the system to innovate,” says Dr. Klein. “At Humber, we’re encouraged to innovate, making it easier to explore new frontiers.” 

Patients from across the province are coming to Humber River Health to benefit from these advanced surgical options. “We’re seeing patients from all over,” shares Dr. Klein. “They recognize that we’re offering something unique.” 

To continue this pioneering work, Humber River Health relies on support from the community. “If someone is considering making a donation, I’d tell them that we’re one of the few places doing a high volume of robotic surgery and researching the overall benefits,” emphasizes Dr. Klein. Humber River Health Foundation plays a crucial role in bridging the funding gap until government support becomes available. 

The integration of robotic technology into surgical practices at Humber River Health exemplifies a commitment to innovation and excellence. “We’re committed to demonstrating that robotic surgery for gastric cancer is not just theoretical—it has real potential to improve patient outcomes,” says Dr. Huynh. 

Expanding Robotic Surgery: da Vinci Xi Surgical Robot

Humber River Health is at the forefront of surgical innovation in Canada and with donor support, our Robotic Surgery Program can continue to make a difference. To learn more, please contact Daniela Campoli at dcampoli@hrh.ca.