The Friarage Hospital has reached a major milestone after completing its 1,000th robotic-assisted surgical procedure, just 18 months after the technology was first introduced.
The landmark operation was carried out at the Friarage Surgical Hub in Northallerton by consultant orthopaedic surgeon Andrew Port.
The procedure marked a significant achievement for the hospital, which has seen rapid success since introducing the Stryker MAKO robotic arm for hip and knee replacement surgery.
Since its introduction, the robotic system has supported 1,000 patients undergoing joint replacement procedures, helping them to recover more quickly following surgery. Seven consultant surgeons are now trained to use the technology.
The robotic-assisted system uses advanced 3D technology to create a bespoke virtual model of each patient’s joint prior to surgery.
During the operation, the surgeon remains in full control of the robotic arm, allowing for increased accuracy and precision when placing implants.
Mr Port said the investment has transformed patient care.
“The investment in the surgical robot has transformed NHS care for the better,” he said.
“We can now create a plan that is bespoke for every patient and their individual requirements, planning exactly where to place the hip or knee while taking into account size, shape and rotation — something that wasn’t possible before.”
He added that patients are experiencing quicker recoveries and improved outcomes.
“Most patients don’t require as much physiotherapy or rehabilitation and are back to doing the things they love much sooner than expected, with many even forgetting they’ve had surgery within six months.
“Because patients are spending less time in hospital, we have been able to carry out more operations and significantly reduce waiting times.”
The Friarage Surgical Hub has also been recognised nationally, with the robotic system being listed on the Stryker database as the most productive and efficient NHS robot in the UK.
One of the patients to benefit from the technology is Edwina Fogg, from North Yorkshire, who was ‘honoured’ to be the 1,000th patient to undergo robotic-assisted surgery, receiving a partial knee replacement in December.
“My whole experience at the Friarage has been fantastic,” she said.
“My surgery date came through much sooner than I expected, which was such a relief as I was really struggling. The surgery was smooth and painless, and the staff were so kind and helpful throughout.
“I’m delighted to now be on my journey to recovery so I can get back to doing the things I love without being in constant pain.”
Another success story is Danielle Gash, a physiotherapist who works on the Gara Ward at the Friarage, who underwent a partial knee replacement at the surgical hub in October 2025.
After injuring her knee in 2009 and experiencing worsening symptoms over recent years, Danielle found everyday activities increasingly difficult.
“The surgery has had such a positive impact on my life,” she said.
“Before the procedure, I was struggling at work and couldn’t keep up with my family on walks. Since surgery, I’ve been completing daily rehab exercises and documenting my recovery to inspire others.”
She added that the results have been life-changing.
“The arthritic pain has gone, I’m no longer walking with a limp, and I’ve even managed to climb Roseberry Topping. I might not be at the front of the walking group just yet, but I know in time I’ll be back up there.”
Hospital leaders say the milestone highlights the Friarage’s growing role as a centre of excellence for orthopaedic surgery and its commitment to improving patient outcomes through innovation.
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