Welcome to BIARGS: the British and Irish Association of Robotic Gynae Surgeons: the professional body of robotic gynaecologists, theatre nurses and first assistants.
BIARGS is an influential professional society of innovative specialists across all fields of surgical gynaecology who are keen to further the successful and safe implementation of robotic surgery for the benefit of women and the health of society as a whole. Robotics has the potential to enable not only more precise and accurate therapies, but to allow a many more women to benefit from these advances in minimally invasive therapy. However, added complexity demands thorough training and good governance to achieve competence and excellence in clinical practice.
BIARGS is a recognised specialist society of the RCOG and is closely allied to SERGS, its pan-European partner. Nearly twenty years since the first robotic hysterectomy was performed in the UK, these are still relatively early days in robotic surgery, with different and improved robotic systems coming onto the market. BIARGS members have established the use of robotic surgery as best practice in the management of endometrial cancer, and have demonstrated the enhanced recovery, safety, and efficacy in performing hysterectomy for benign disease, myomectomy and resection of endometriosis. BIARGS members are the leaders in the teaching and rolling out of high efficiency high throughput operating lists, embracing the best of technology and teamwork. Research into the application and possible benefits of robotics is ongoing in some of the most complex subjects including ovarian cancer, pelvic organ prolapse, and theatre staff ergonomics and health, as well as into surgery for high-risk patients with medical co-morbidities including obesity and frailty.
BIARGS members have been instrumental in setting standards in clinical governance and in the training of surgeons and first assistants, and have publicly shared early audit and research data to influence further developments and clinical applications. These standards will continue to be reviewed and updated as the evidence base continues to evolve and improve over time. Thanks to BIARGS the use of robotics has been recognised and included into the RCOG 2024 Advanced Training Curriculum for specialist trainees, both in subspecialty training and also with development of the Special Interest Training Module in RAS. BIARGS continues to work closely with the RCOG on the future of surgical training. BIARGS holds regular
webinars and training courses including dedicated robotic Training The Trainers courses and for theatre staff.
I myself, was an early adopter of robotics and was a founder member of BIARGS, but like most newcomers, I too was sceptical in the beginning. Embrace the future now. Be a part of what is new and exciting in gynaecological surgery and join BIARGS today.
Simon Butler-Manuel
President, BIARGS
President’s Message – BIARGS
Welcome to BIARGS – an exciting time for robotic-assisted gynaecological surgery in the UK and beyond.
We are witnessing a significant expansion in robotic training opportunities, ensuring that the next generation of gynaecological surgeons is equipped with the skills and knowledge to deliver cutting-edge care. BIARGS is proud to now have accredited robotic surgeons and BIARGS-certified robotic assistants as part of our growing community. These structured pathways not only validate competency but also ensure patient safety and surgical excellence.
In collaboration with the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG), we continue to develop robust training frameworks, including webinars, hands-on training courses (TTT courses), and BIARGS Robotic Certificate Hours that are designed to be flexible and accessible for all levels of experience.
Looking ahead, we are excited to announce the BIARGS Annual Scientific Meeting, which will be held on 21–22 November 2025. This promises to be a landmark event, bringing together experts, trainees, and industry leaders to share innovations, research, and future directions in robotic gynaecological surgery.
Together, we are building a future where robotic surgery becomes an integral part of gynaecological practice, with BIARGS at the forefront of education, accreditation, and clinical excellence.
Thank you for being part of this journey.
Nahid Gul
President, BIARGS
BIARGS President’s Christmas Message 2024
Dear Members,
As the year draws to a close, I want to take this opportunity to reflect on what has been an incredibly busy and productive year for the British & Irish Association of Robotic Gynaecological Surgeons (BIARGS).
In 2024, we witnessed remarkable growth in both robotic surgery and our society. Our successful training courses, generously supported by our dedicated trainers, have helped us advance skills and promote excellence in robotic surgery. Notably, we held a Training the Trainers course in collaborationwith Lapco, further strengthening our commitment to building a robust educational foundation for the future.
Our monthly webinars have become a vital platform for promoting robotic surgery and fostering engagement among our members. The Annual Scientific Meeting (ASM) in Liverpool this November was another highlight, marked by an enriching collaboration with esteemed organizations such as the BSGE, BSUG, and BSGO. Additionally, our partnership with the RCOG has reached new heights this year.
A key milestone for BIARGS in 2024 was the implementation of the robotic curriculum as part of the RCOG SITM programme. This significant achievement marks the beginning of formal robotic training for trainees in the UK, setting us apart as the only Britishcollege for postgraduate gynaecological education with an integrated robotic training programme. This innovation underscores our dedication to advancing education and patient care.
Your enthusiasm for learning, commitment to innovation, and active participation in society activities have been the cornerstone of our success. Together, we are shaping the future of gynaecological robotic surgery.
As we look ahead to 2025, we are excited to build on these successes. Plans are already underway for a series of training courses catering to all levels—basic, intermediate, and advanced. Our collaboration with the RCOG will continue to thrive, with a joint scientific meeting at the RCOG Global Congress in June 2025 and our ASM in North Staffordshire in November.
We aim to establish BIARGS as aglobal leader in robotic surgical education and innovation, ensuring that our members remain at the forefront of advancements in this exciting field.
I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to all our members and council members whose dedication and passion have made BIARGS the thriving society it is today. I encourage all members performing gynaecological robotic surgery to engage with the annual audit and pursue robotic accreditation to maintain the highest standards of practice.
May this holiday season bring you peace, joy, and time to reflect on your incredible contributions to our field. Here’s to continued success in 2025!
