Robotic-assisted laparoscopic high anterior resection in Glasgow Skip to main content

Robotic-assisted laparoscopic high anterior resection in Glasgow

Minimally invasive bowel surgery with advanced robotics in Glasgow

High anterior resection surgery is an operation done to remove the diseased part of your sigmoid colon (the last looping part of your large bowel on the left side of your tummy) and the upper part of the rectum (the final section of the large intestine connected to your anus).

The procedure is typically done to help treat cancers and remove a tumour in the lower section of your bowels or in the upper part of your rectum. If you have been diagnosed with bowel (colorectal) cancer, your doctor may recommend a combination of treatment options, including high anterior resection. This will depend on the type of cancer you have and how far it has advanced.

High anterior resection isn’t only used to treat cancer. It is also recommended to help treat damage to your bowels caused by other diseases, such as diverticular disease or Crohn’s disease

During the operation, your consultant general surgeon will remove your sigmoid colon and the upper part of your rectum. This operation not only removes the damaged area of your bowel affected by disease, but it also removes the draining lymph glands from this part of your bowel. Where possible, the remaining healthy colon and rectum are re-joined together by stitching or using a special stapling device.

If cancerous tissue is suspected to have been removed, your sample will be sent to expert pathologists for further examination. They will be able to examine each part of the tissue under the microscope to look for cancerous cells.

Cancers or conditions that can affect the bowels can cause symptoms that can be signs for concern. These include: 

Changes in your bowel habits

Persistent changes in your bowel habits, such as diarrhoea, constipation, or a change in the consistency of your stool. You might also experience the feeling that your bowel doesn’t empty completely after a bowel movement.

Blood in your poo

You might notice rectal bleeding or blood in your poo, which can appear as bright red or dark stools. Blood might also appear on toilet paper when you wipe or in the toilet bowl after a bowel movement.

A painful tummy

Persistent abdominal pain, cramps, or discomfort are common, as is a feeling of fullness, bloating, or gas pain.

Unexplained weight loss

Losing weight quickly without trying can be a sign of a gastrointestinal condition, including bowel cancer.

Fatigue and weakness

You might feel persistent tiredness or weakness that doesn't improve appropriate levels of rest and sleep.

Iron-deficiency anaemia

Due to chronic blood loss from rectal bleeding, some people may develop anaemia. This can lead to symptoms like fatigue, weakness, and pale skin. 

It is important to note that these symptoms are also associated with other conditions such as haemorrhoids, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), or infections.

If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to visit a healthcare professional for an examination and screening tests. Early detection is key to effectively treating cancer, especially bowel or rectal cancer.

High anterior resection surgery can be performed via minimally invasive keyhole surgery using robotic-assisted technology. At Ross Hall Hospital in Glasgow, our highly experienced general surgeons are trained in the use of advanced robotic technology and perform thousands of these procedures each year. They are specially trained in using the Da Vinci robotic surgical system to perform this procedure, bringing you many benefits, including a faster recovery time.

The Da Vinci robotic surgical system

The Da Vinci robotic surgery system is a state-of-the-art, cutting-edge tool used for surgery.  The Da Vinci system makes it possible to perform surgery through a few very small incisions, no larger than your fingertip. With the Da Vinci system, your surgeon sits at a console near you in the operating room. The console enables them to control a camera and the tiny instruments used to perform your surgery with precision and accuracy.

The Da Vinci robotic surgical system offers a range of unique benefits, particularly in precision-demanding procedures that are highly specialist, such as thoracic, urological, and gynaecological surgeries.

"We are delighted to offer surgery with da Vinci robot. We can perform a number of surgeries with robotics, including colonic resections, pelvic surgery, and abdominal wall hernia repair surgery. The technology allows for better optics and better outcomes for patients, and we are so proud to be the only hospital in Scotland providing patients with this service."
Consultant General and Colorectal Surgeon, Mr Andrew Renwick

There are many advantages to robotic-assisted surgery, which are:

Enhanced precision and accuracy

One of the key benefits of robotic surgery is advanced optics. Optics in surgery refers to the advanced visual technology and instruments that help enhance your consultant's ability to see and interact with your surgical site. These optical tools, including high-definition cameras, endoscopes, microscopes, and magnifying lenses, provide better views of your internal structures, allowing for more precision and accuracy during surgery than traditional methods.

The robotic system’s high-definition 3D vision and magnified view allows your consultant to see the surgical area in much finer detail than traditional optics. This precision is particularly beneficial in complex surgeries, where accuracy is crucial to preserving healthy tissue and ensuring the best possible outcomes.

A faster recovery and return to what matters

One of the most significant benefits of robotic surgery is the potential for a faster recovery. The procedure is minimally invasive and involves smaller incisions, so overall there is less trauma to your body than traditional surgery. This typically leads to a shorter hospital stay and quicker return to normal activities, like work, exercise, and driving.

Less pain and discomfort after surgery

Robotic surgery is designed to minimise the physical impact of surgery on your body. The smaller incisions reduce the risk of infection and scarring during recovery. Typically, less tissue is disturbed when operating through smaller incisions, as a result patients often report experiencing less postoperative pain. This can significantly reduce the need for pain medications, which can have side effects and prolong recovery.

Access to cutting-edge technology guided by our top experts

Robotic-assisted surgery combines the expertise of our skilled surgeons with the most advanced surgical technology available. This synergy allows for more complex procedures to be performed with enhanced effectiveness. You can benefit from the latest innovations in medical technology, leading to better outcomes and fewer complications.

A laparoscopic high anterior resection at Ross Hall Hospital starts from £18,362.

Paying for treatment in a way that works for you

Our fixed-price packages include the cost of your surgery and all appropriate aftercare appointments. However, any pre-surgery diagnostic tests and your consultant’s outpatient appointment consultation fee are charged separately.

Our flexible payment options help you spread the cost of your payment across a time period that suits you. We offer fixed-term monthly payment plans over one to five years with no deposit required. If you decide to pay over 10 months, you will pay interest-free. If you are paying for a longer period, you will pay 9.9% APR.

If you have private health insurance, surgery will usually be covered by your provider. Speak to your insurer directly to find out.

When you choose to go private with Ross Hall Hospital, you can expect:

  • Flexible appointment times to fit your schedule
  • The freedom to choose your hospital and your consultant
  • Bespoke, consultant-led treatment plans tailored to your individual needs
  • Private en-suite rooms as standard
  • Tasty and nutritious meals cooked onsite to your dietary requirements
  • Support from the same compassionate clinical team from beginning to end
  • Affordable, fixed-price packages with aftercare included
  • Flexible payment options to help spread the cost of your care

If you want to know more about this procedure and find out if it's the right treatment for you, book your appointment online today.

Content reviewed by In-house Team in January 2026. Next review due January 2029.

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