Dr Katie Christensen has become QEII’s first gynaecologist accredited on the da Vinci Xi robotic platform, marking a major step forward for public access to robotic surgery in Brisbane.
As of May 2023, 162 robotic platforms were in use in Australasia; however, only 26 were available to the public sector with limited use for gynaecological procedures.
Dr Christensen said being able to offer robotic surgery to QEII patients is a win for women’s health in the Metro South catchment.
“Having access to the da Vinci Xi robotic platform for gynaecology patients here at QEII will enable us to offer a minimally invasive approach with greater precision for complex procedures that might otherwise require open surgery," Katie said.
"Minimally invasive surgery means less pain, less scarring and an enhanced recovery. It will particularly benefit patients with conditions such as severe endometriosis, fibroids, complex adhesions and prior surgeries."
Katie said her recent accreditation fully aligns with her motivation for pursuing a career in obstetrics and gynaecology.
"One of the biggest motivations in pursuing a career in O&G for me was the opportunity to provide care to women in some of the more vulnerable moments of their life, ranging from childbirth to managing debilitating pelvic pain and endometriosis.
"I’ve been the grateful recipient of wonderful training and mentorship along the way in my career, and I try to honour that by using my training to help open up advanced surgical treatments to patients at QEII," Katie said.
"As the gynaecology robotics program matures at QEII, we are focused on ensuring that access to this approach is prioritised for the patients where traditional laparoscopy isn’t feasible, so that as many patients as possible can achieve these benefits.”
Dr Dean Conrad, who proctored Katie with the QEII team through three cases, including two complex procedures involving endometriosis and prior surgery, said the accreditation would support public patients who stand to benefit most from minimally invasive approaches.
“Katie is an AGES-trained gynaecologist and LAP-D faculty member. Her anatomical knowledge and dissection skills are evident, and she is exactly the kind of surgeon who will help robotics deliver meaningful value in the public setting.”
Dr Conrad said Katie’s progression aligned with AIRS training guidance, including careful case observation, simulation-based preparation, and ongoing mentorship and support as she transitioned into independent robotic practice.
“What stood out just as much as Katie’s exceptional skills was the dedicated team. Seeing a public programme launch with this level of preparation, teamwork and intent is a reminder of what is possible when access becomes the priority.
“This is how robotic surgery should evolve. Not as a technology story, but as an access story.”
You can support staff education and the acquisition of cutting edge equipment like the da Vinci Xi robotic platform by making QEII Hospital Fund your place to give here.
Story courtesy of Metro South Health.
