A landmark that represents 50 patients treated with greater precision, less pain, and faster recovery.
Dr Julius Jacobs, accredited Da Vinci robotic surgeon and urologist based at Life Wilgers Hospital in Pretoria, has reached a significant personal milestone: his 50th procedure performed using the Da Vinci robotic surgical system.
Robotic surgery has transformed the treatment of urological conditions — most significantly prostate cancer. The Da Vinci system provides Dr Jacobs with a magnified, three-dimensional high-definition view of the surgical field and instruments that bend and rotate with precision that surpasses what is achievable through traditional surgery. The result is smaller incisions, less bleeding, reduced pain, and a significantly shorter recovery period for patients.
For prostate cancer patients specifically, the precision of robotic surgery matters beyond the operating table. Better preservation of nerves and surrounding blood vessels directly improves post-operative quality of life — including urinary and sexual function — outcomes that matter profoundly to patients and their families.
This 50th procedure is a milestone that belongs not only to Dr Jacobs, but to every patient who placed their trust in him and to the skilled theatre team that supports each case.
"Each procedure is a reminder of why precision matters. Robotic surgery allows me to operate with a level of control and clarity that gives patients better outcomes — and that is what this milestone is really about." — Dr Julius Jacobs