Medical Breakthroughs

2019

Children’s Hospital at London Health Sciences Centre performs first paediatric robot-assisted neurosurgery in Ontario

A London youth was the first paediatric patient in Ontario to receive a robot-assisted stereoelectroencephalography (SEEG) procedure that was performed by the Paediatric Epilepsy Program at Children’s Hospital at London Health Sciences Centre (LHSC). LHSC was previously the first in Ontario to robotically perform the SEEG procedure on adult patients, successfully transferring the knowledge and skill set to the specialized team of paediatric neurosurgeons.

2018

LHSC launched genetic lab tests across North America for a range of diseases and disorders

A multi-gene panel technology developed by LHSC became available through the global life sciences company LabCorp® to perform genetic testing for Charcot–Marie–Tooth disease, epilepsy, and mitochondrial disorders. Availability of these genetic tests outside of Ontario through this licensing agreement will generate revenue for LHSC that can be used to fund further advances in patient care, and will also lead to benefits for patients and care providers as a result of the rich database of genetic biomarkers that will be interpreted and housed by LHSC’s lab. Analysis of that database will allow researchers and clinicians to better understand how different genetic mutations influence disease, with the potential to help inform decisions on the best course of treatment for each patient.

LHSC launched genetic lab tests across North America for a range of diseases and disorders

A multi-gene panel technology developed by LHSC became available through the global life sciences company LabCorp® to perform genetic testing for Charcot–Marie–Tooth disease, epilepsy, and mitochondrial disorders. Availability of these genetic tests outside of Ontario through this licensing agreement will generate revenue for LHSC that can be used to fund further advances in patient care, and will also lead to benefits for patients and care providers as a result of the rich database of genetic biomarkers that will be interpreted and housed by LHSC’s lab. Analysis of that database will allow researchers and clinicians to better understand how different genetic mutations influence disease, with the potential to help inform decisions on the best course of treatment for each patient.

LHSC pioneered two cardiac surgical firsts

Surgeons at LHSC pioneered the use of a new trans-catheter aortic valve in two cardiac surgical firsts. In a Canadian first, a multidisciplinary heart team at University Hospital implanted a device called the Medtronic Pro Valve through a patient’s femoral artery. One week later, a second patient in need of a similar valve replacement underwent a world-first procedure when the Medtronic Evolut Pro Valve was implanted directly through the main aorta. Both procedures avoid the need for open-heart surgery and the extensive recovery that valve replacement surgery requires.

LHSC performed world-first robotic cardiac surgery

LHSC performed the world’s first robotic assisted aortic valve replacement in patients with aortic valve stenosis, using the da Vinci® surgical system. The procedure was performed by a multidisciplinary team, led by Dr. Bob Kiaii using a tissue valve called the Perceval S Valve from Liva Nova. This new generation valve is a suture-less valve, which facilitates performance of less invasive aortic valve replacement. This marks the first time the da Vinci® robot has been used to perform this delicate procedure on a patient diagnosed with aortic stenosis - a narrowing of the aortic artery due to calcification.

2017

LHSC epilepsy patients first in Ontario to benefit from robot-assisted neurosurgery

LHSC’s Epilepsy Program became the first in Ontario to perform a robotic-assisted stereoelectroencephalography (SEEG) procedure, in which electrodes are placed into the brain to map epileptic seizure activity. Once the seizure onset is localized, neurosurgeons can determine whether a good seizure outcome may be possible through brain surgery.

2016

LHSC performed the first robotic ventral rectopexy in Canada

The colorectal surgery team at London Health Sciences Centre (LHSC) performed the first robotic ventral rectopexy in Canada to treat a condition called obstructive defecation syndrome.

2015

LHSC is the first in North America to implant Medtronic’s Engager Valve in a transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) procedure

The heart team at London Health Sciences Centre (LHSC) is the first in North America to implant Medtronic’s Engager Valve in a transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) procedure.

LHSC cardiac surgery program is the first in Canada to use a new suture fastening system during open heart surgery

London Health Sciences Centre’s (LHSC) cardiac surgery program is the first in Canada to use a new suture fastening system during open heart surgery. Using the COR-KNOT System, the surgeon places the device over the suture, squeezes the device handle to crimp a titanium fastener, which securely holds the suture together, and gently tugs the suture to trim away excess suture tails.

2014

LHSC becomes first in North America to implant the ACURATE TA™ transcatheter aortic valve implantation

On May 12th, 2014 LHSC's cardiac team successfully performed North America’s first ACURATE TA™ transcatheter aortic valve implantation surgery (TAVI).

2013

An LHSC surgeon is the first in Canada to perform a robotic single-site gallbladder removal - or cholecystectomy

On September 13th 2013, Dr. Christopher Schlachta became the first to perform a robotic single-site gallbladder removal - or cholecystectomy in Canada. With this procedure, the gallbladder is removed through a single small incision, hidden in the belly button, and patients experience virtually scarless results.

LHSC becomes the first in North America to perform a BONEBRIDGE bone conduction implant

On April 25, Kelly Dickson, from Cambridge, Ontario became the first patient in North America to receive the BONEBRIDGE™ – a bone conduction hearing implant.  The surgery was successfully performed at London Health Sciences Centre (LHSC) by Dr. Sumit Agrawal and his surgical team. BONEBRIDGE is new technology developed by MED-El Medical Electronics that makes it possible for people with hearing impairments, including conductive and mixed hearing losses or single-sided deafness, to hear a full range of sounds.

LHSC and Lawson Health Research Institute perform world first treatment of localized prostate cancer

The treatment - transurethral magnetic resonance (MR) guided ultrasound ablation for prostate cancer - utilizes a new ablation device that uses thermal ultrasound therapy with real-time MR image guidance to eliminate cancer cells in the prostate gland. This treatment option helps reduce complications post-op and can also benefit patients who have a small amount of cancer that is less likely to spread.

London Health Sciences Centre is the first in North America to use the Geko™ blood circulation device and first in the world to use the device in cardiac surgery

The self-contained Geko™ device is designed to increase blood flow by activating the muscle pumps in the lower leg that return blood to the heart, emulating the blood flow rate normally achieved by walking (up to 70 per cent), without the patient having to move or exert energy. The procedure was performed by LHSC cardiac surgeon, Dr. Bob Kiaii.

2012

London Health Sciences Centre announces a Canadian surgical first to remove cancer from the liver

Dr. Hernandez-Alejandro performed a procedure formally called an associating liver partition and portal vein ligation for stage hepatectomy, or ALPPS procedure. The surgical first is that both stages of the hepatectomy, or removal of the liver, was completed in the span of one week to ensure that cancer does not spread to other parts of the liver.

LHSC cardiologists Dr. Lorne Gula and Dr. Jaimie Manlucu became the first in Canada to use a pressure sensing catheter to perform a pulmonary vein ablation for atrial fibrillation

On August 22nd, 2012, Dr. Lorne Gula and Dr. Jaimie Manlucu became the first in Canada to use a pressure sensing catheter to perform a pulmonary vein ablation for atrial fibrillation at London Health Sciences Centre (LHSC). During a pulmonary vein ablation the physician eliminates abnormal heart tissue that causes the electrical system of the heart to “short-circuit” causing irregular heart rhythm. The goal of the procedure is to ensure that the abnormal heart tissue is permanently eliminated.

2011

London Health Sciences Centre announces the world's first emergency surgery performed using the DaVinci robot

London Health Sciences Centre's (LHSC) cardiac surgery team successfully performed an emergency surgery to repair a hole in a patient’s heart caused by a pacemaker complication using the DaVinci robot. Traditionally, this surgery is done via traditional open chest surgery.

LHSC becomes the first hospital in Canada to use wireless technology for hemodynamic evaluation, or the evaluation of pressures and flow in patient’s hearts

This procedure allows a small device to wirelessly transmit information to a system for processing. The information that is sent wirelessly compares the heart’s blood pressure to the body’s blood pressure. If there is a big difference, it signals to the doctor that there is not enough pressure in the heart, which may suggest that there is a significant blockage or narrowing of the artery and could require further medical treatment.

LHSC surgeons perform the first robotically assisted and minimally invasive laryngectomy

On December 3, 2010 Dr. Anthony Nichols and Dr. Kevin Fung, head and neck surgeons, performed the first robotically assisted and minimally invasive laryngectomy (or the removal of a small portion of the voicebox). This surgery was required to remove a cancerous lesion from the patient’s larynx.

2010

Doctors at LHSC become the first in the world to use the Correx AVB device

On November 3, 2010, LHSC’s cardiac surgery team led by Drs. Bob Kiaii and Linrui Guo successfully performed an aortic valve bypass using a specialized Aortic Valve Bypass (AVB) device.The Correx AVB device is an implantable surgical device that promises to revolutionize aortic valve bypass surgery by reducing its complexity through a specialized delivery mechanism that renders the surgery almost bloodless, eliminating the need to stop the heart and put the patient on a heart-lung bypass machine.

Children’s Hospital, London Health Sciences Centre becomes the first hospital in Ontario to implement the Period of PURPLE Crying® program in their emergency department

The Period of PURPLE Crying® program provides important information to parents and caregivers regarding infant crying patterns and comforting strategies, and education on Shaken Baby Syndrome.

LHSC becomes first in providing peritoneal home dialysis patients with touch screen technology and access to a health coach from home at LHSC

The PD unit also, in partnership with Baxter, provides Telehomecare support that monitors your condition and enables early intervention for problems, a first in North America. LHSC is proud to continue at home care to this day.

2009

LHSC and Lawson Health Research Institute (Lawson) announce a Canadian first in the treatment of lung cancer

by removing a small wedge from the patient’s lung and then applying a surgical mesh interwoven with brachytherapy seeds to where the lung was resected. This became another robotically assisted breakthrough at LHSC. 

LHSC became the first hospital in North America to use a robotic-arm neuro-angiogram machine in an operating room

London Health Sciences Centre became the first hospital in North America to have a robotic-arm neuro-angiogram machine in an operating room. This device is known as The Zeego, it is manufactured by Siemens and is a floor-mounted neuro-angiogram machine designed to take images during surgery.

2008

LHSC becomes the first in North America to implant an insertable cardiac monitor

London Health Sciences Centre (LHSC) became the first in North America to implant an insertable cardiac monitor. This cardiac monitor offers long-term and continuous monitoring for atrial fibrillation, the most common cardiac arrhythmia.

LHSC performs the world’s first robotically-assisted intestinal bypass surgery for a patient with superior mesenteric artery (SMA) syndrome, also known as Wilkie’s syndrome, using the da Vinci® robot

This procedure was performed at the hospital on July 30th, 2008, By using the da Vinci® robot, Dr. Schlachta, assisted by Dr. Andreana Bütter, pediatric surgeon, and Dr. Shiva Jayaraman, robotic surgery fellow, were able to reduce the patient’s hospital stay to three days with minimal use of pain medication.

LHSC’s Sterile Processing Department is the first hospital in Canada to implement Censitrac software

Censitrac software allows medical instruments to be tracked at the individual level. 

2007

LHSC performs Canada's first totally endoscopic closed-chest robotic coronary artery bypass surgery on a patient

The CSTAR surgical team successfully performed Canada’s first totally endoscopic closed-chest robotic coronary artery bypass surgery on a patient’s beating heart at LHSC.

Canada’s first robotic-assisted common bile duct exploration using a da Vinci robot is performed at LHSC

On April 3, 2007, Dr. Schlachta, assisted by Dr. Ward Davies, LHSC's Chief of General Surgery, performed a robotic-assisted common bile duct exploration using CSTAR's da Vinci robot. It was a Canadian first. The use of robotics in Canada has tended to be in cardiac surgery and urologic surgery, making this particular innovation all the more significant for taking place in general surgery.

2006

An LHSC team is one of two independent Canadian teams to first use new electroanatomical mapping technology to perform a pulmonary vein ablation for atrial fibrillation

A team of cardiologists at LHSC's University Hospital became one of the two independent Canadian medical teams to perform the impedance-mapping technology during a pulmonary vein ablation procedure (PVA). 

2005

World’s first robotic-assisted left atrial appendage ligation to reduce the chance of clot formation and stroke in high risk patients with atrial fibrillation is performed at LHSC

LHSC became the world's first to perform a robotic procedure that aims to reduce the chance of clot formation and stroke for high risk patients suffering from Atrial Fibrillation (AF). The procedure called a robotic assisted left atrial appendage ligation was performed at London Health Sciences Centre (LHSC) by an interdisciplinary team of surgeon/scientists from CSTAR (Canadian Surgical Technologies & Advanced Robotics) and Lawson Health Research Institute (Lawson)

Canada’s first minimally invasive robotic-assisted double bypass surgery is performed at LHSC

Canada's first minimally invasive robotically assisted double bypass surgery, a multi vessel small thorocotomy (MVST), is performed at LHSC. An interdisciplinary team performs the world's first robotic assisted left atrial appendage ligation at LHSC. Surgeons are just a small part of the large team that went into this procedure.

Canada’s first robotic-assisted multi vessel small thoracotomy is performed at LHSC

Canada's first minimally invasive robotically assisted double bypass surgery, a multi vessel small thorocotomy (MVST), is performed at LHSC. 

2004

LHSC’s Image-Guided surgery team performs the world’s first image-guided robotic-assisted thoracoscopic resection of a lung cancer using Computer Motion’s AESOP® robotic arm and a 3-dimensional ultrasound probe

 

Esophageal Surgery team performed Canada’s first robotic-assisted laparoscopic transhiatal esophagectomy for esophageal cancer

This Procedure was performed on May 31st, 2004, and was made possible using Computer Motion’s AESOP® robotic arm.

In a Canadian first in research for CSTAR (Canadian Surgical Technologies & Advanced Robotics), the four-armed da Vinci robot was used throughout a surgery to complete a radical prostatectomy

 

A CSTAR team is the first in North America to complete two different procedures to clear blocked arteries, minimally invasive robotic-assisted heart bypass surgery and angioplasty with stenting, at the same time in the operating room

in October 2004, an interdisciplinary medical team led by Dr. Bob Kiaii, leader of CSTAR’s Robotic Coronary Artery Bypass research project and cardiac surgeon at LHSC, and Dr. Bill Kostuk, cardiologist at LHSC, were the first in North America to complete two different procedures to clear blocked arteries during the same episode of care.

In a North American first, an interdisciplinary team successfully removes a renal artery aneurysm with the help of a da Vinci surgical robot

 

A small, multi-channel recording and stimulating device that aids in deep brain stimulation is developed at LHSC

 

2003

Urologists at LHSC becomes the first in Canada to use the three-armed ZEUS robot to correct a blockage in the ureter of the kidney

 

Results of an international study show that the common high blood pressure drug ramipril can prevent heart failure in high risk cardiovascular patients

 

LHSC becomes the first in Canada and one of three in the world to use revolutionary digital technology to produce detailed fluoroscopic images for diagnostic and interventional procedures

Revolutionary digital technology to produce detailed fluoroscopic images is used for diagnostic and interventional procedures at LHSC – a Canadian first.

LHSC surgeons become the first in Canada to use a four-armed da Vinci robot to complete a single coronary artery bypass graft

 

LHSC’s Pulmonary surgery performed Canada’s first robotic-assisted lobectomy for lung cancer using Computer Motion’s AESOP® robotic arm

 

2002

An LHSC study determines that patients with congestive heart failure have an improved quality of life with a new pacemaker that works on both sides of the heart

 

LHSC cardiologists complete a left atrial appendage occlusion, a new procedure for stroke prevention that closes the area of the heart where the majority of blood clots form

 

Neurosurgeons at LHSC complete the first artificial cervical disc replacement in North America

 

LRCC becomes one of two sites in Canada and one of three in the world to have a tomotherapy unit, the newest radiation treatment technology

 

2001

LHSC’s Pulmonary surgery team performed the world’s first robotic-assisted lung volume reduction using Computer Motion’s AESOP® robotic arm

 

LHSC’s Pulmonary surgery team performed Canada’s first robotic-assisted resection of a lung cancer using Computer Motion’s AESOP® robotic arm

 

LHSC’s Pulmonary surgery team performed Canada’s first robotic-assisted apical bullectomy for a pneumothorax using Computer Motion’s AESOP® robotic arm

 

Using Socrates robotic technology, LHSC conducts the world's first robotic-assisted surgery via telementoring, in which one surgeon assisted and mentored another at a remote site and both manipulated robotic arms inside the patient in the operating room

 

LHSC researchers are the first in the world to find strong evidence to support that surgery, not medicine, is the key to improved quality of life for temporal lobe epilepsy

 

The first artificial disc replacement in Canada is completed at LHSC

 

2000

LHSC's transplant team performs the first adult-to-adult living donor partial-liver transplant in Canada

 

LHSC's surgical team performs the first minimally invasive robotic-assisted mitral valve heart surgery in Canada

 

1999

LHSC's surgical team successfully completes the world's first closed-chest, robotic-assisted beating heart coronary artery bypass graft

 

1998

An LHSC team is the first in Canada to perform voice-activated robotic-assisted minimally invasive cardiac bypass surgery

 

1997

LHSC's Multi-Organ Transplant team transplants a liver, bowel, stomach, and pancreas into a five-month-old infant, the world's youngest recipient of a multi-organ transplant

 

An LHSC nephrologist performs a world-first in plasma exchange treatment and is credited with saving the life of a man with a severe case of food poisoning

 

LHSC cardiac surgeons are the first in Canada to perform a revolutionary method of video-assisted minimally invasive heart surgery

 

1996

A team of researchers accomplishes a world-first when they develop a miniature recording device that monitors the heartbeat during fainting spells

 

1994

The world's first 3D ultrasound-guided cryosurgery is performed at University Hospital

 

1993

Victoria and University hospitals collaborate on Canada's first living-related paediatric liver transplant

 

1991

A study begins at University Hospital on the safety and efficacy of using detachable platinum coils to treat brain aneurysms

 

1990

LRCC is the first in Canada to use the radioactive source Ytterbium for treatment

 

1989

The first cardiac stent insertion in Canada is performed at Victoria Hospital

 

The world's first invasive inner ear surgery for vertigo in normal hearing ears is conducted at University Hospital

 

1988

The world's first successful liver-small bowel transplant is performed at University Hospital

 

The London Regional Cancer Centre (now Verspeeten Family Care Centre) is the first Canadian site to treat malignant melanoma and kidney disease patients with Interleukin-2

 

1987

The world's first cardiac defibrillator is implanted at University Hospital

 

1985

A University Hospital team announces success in a trial using cyclosporine to arrest the progress of Type 1 diabetes

 

1983

University Hospital is the first in Canada to perform a heart-lung transplant

 

1981

University Hospital performs the world's first heart operation to correct life threatening right ventricular dysplasia

 

1972

Operations begin on cerebral aneurysms using a technique that establishes University Hospital’s worldwide reputation

 

1958

Dr. Charles Drake pioneers a surgical procedure for aneurysms at the base of the brain, called basilar aneurysms, a World first

 

1956

The London Clinic of the Ontario Cancer Treatment and Research Foundation at Victoria Hospital (now the Verspeeten Family Care Centre) and The University of Western Ontario discover the chemotherapy drugs vinca alkaloids

 

1951

The first cobalt bomb in the world is used to deliver radiation therapy to cancer patients at Victoria Hospital

 

1948

The first artificial kidney machine in Canada is developed at Victoria Hospital

 

Physicians at Victoria Hospital are the first in the world to recognize sexual dimorphism in human cells, leading to new knowledge of the relationship between sex chromosome abnormalities and human disease

 

Note: LRCC, London Regional Cancer Centre, integrated with London Health Sciences Centre in January 2004 and became the London Regional Cancer Program (now Verspeeten Family Care Centre)