Maria Middelares Hospital in Ghent has become the first medical institution in Belgium to introduce robotic assistance in the detection of prostate cancer. The innovative technology, known as the iSR’obot Mona Lisa 2.0, is designed to guide urologists during prostate biopsies with unprecedented precision.
Prostate biopsies are a crucial diagnostic procedure, involving the collection of tissue samples to examine for potential signs of cancer. Traditionally, this has been a delicate process that requires multiple punctures, increasing the risk of complications.
With the arrival of this new robotic system, doctors can now perform biopsies more accurately and with fewer needle insertions. The technology works by using MRI scans to create a three-dimensional reconstruction of the prostate.
This model allows the robot to highlight suspicious areas within the gland, ensuring that the needle is guided directly to the regions most likely to contain abnormalities. According to hospital specialists, this approach not only improves diagnostic accuracy but also reduces unnecessary interventions.
One of the standout features of the iSR’obot Mona Lisa 2.0 is its ability to self-correct in real-time. If the prostate moves slightly during the procedure or the needle deviates, the system automatically adjusts, ensuring the biopsy remains precise.
This feature significantly reduces the chances of inconclusive results and minimises the discomfort for patients. Hospital urologists emphasise that this technology could make an important difference in patient care.
By reducing the number of punctures and complications, recovery times may be improved, while the likelihood of early and accurate cancer detection is greatly increased.
Moreover, the efficiency of the robot-assisted process is expected to shorten waiting lists for patients requiring biopsies. Although the introduction of the robot marks a milestone, hospital experts note that its effectiveness is still under study.
Research is being conducted to measure long-term outcomes and assess how much the system can improve overall cancer detection rates compared with traditional methods.
Belgium has long been recognised for its advanced healthcare facilities, and the adoption of this robotic assistant further strengthens that reputation. With prostate cancer being one of the most common cancers among men worldwide, the development is particularly significant.
According to cancer research organisations, early and accurate diagnosis remains the most effective way to improve survival rates. The deployment of the iSR’obot Mona Lisa 2.0 at Maria Middelares Hospital illustrates how technological innovation is reshaping modern healthcare.
Beyond improving diagnostics, it also demonstrates the growing role of artificial intelligence and robotics in supporting medical specialists.
For patients in Ghent and beyond, this innovation offers new hope in the fight against prostate cancer. While further studies will determine its long-term impact, the early signs suggest that robotic technology may soon become a standard part of cancer diagnostics in Belgium.
