Robot-Assisted Surgery Gives Ketamine Addict a New Lease on Life

A recovering ketamine addict, Mitchell Woodhouse, from Waterlooville, recently underwent a groundbreaking bladder operation at QA Hospital in Portsmouth. The 22-year-old's life had been severely impacted by his addiction, leaving him incontinent and housebound. The innovative procedure involved removing his damaged bladder and replacing it with one constructed from a section of his intestine. The surgery was performed using robotic technology, providing surgeons with enhanced precision and a magnified 3D view of the operative field. "It's going to be a new chapter in my life," Mitchell shared, expressing his hope for a pain-free future. Consultant Urological Surgeon Richard Robinson, who led the team, explained that the procedure was the third of its kind he'd performed this year, highlighting the growing need for this type of operation. The operation took over seven hours, and Mitchell will spend around ten days in hospital before continuing his recovery at home. This successful surgery represents a significant step forward in treating the severe complications associated with ketamine abuse.