New Delhi: AIIMS Delhi has introduced a surgical robot in its general surgery department, becoming one of the first government hospitals in India to adopt robotic-assisted surgery in this field. The move aims to enhance precision in complex procedures and improve patient outcomes in a public healthcare setting.
Robotic Surgery in Government Hospitals
Robotic-assisted surgery has been widely used in private hospitals across India, particularly in specialties like urology and gynecology. However, its adoption in government hospitals for general surgery has been limited. With this installation, AIIMS Delhi seeks to bridge the gap and expand access to advanced medical technology for patients from diverse socio-economic backgrounds.
The system provides surgeons with a three-dimensional, magnified view of the operative field and robotic arms with enhanced ability. These features allow for greater precision in procedures such as colorectal surgeries, esophagectomies, and pancreatic surgeries, which traditionally involve significant risks and longer recovery periods.
Impact on Medical Training
In addition to improving patient care, the new system will also play a role in surgical education. AIIMS Delhi trains over 100 surgical residents at any given time, and the introduction of robotic-assisted surgery will enable them to gain hands-on experience with the latest technology.
Dr. Sunil Chumber, head of the department of surgical disciplines, highlighted that this will align AIIMS’s surgical training with global standards. “The system provides residents with a critical opportunity to develop skills in robotic surgery, which is becoming an essential part of modern surgical practice,” he said. By integrating robotic technology into its general surgery department, AIIMS Delhi is setting a precedent for the adoption of advanced medical tools in public hospitals, ensuring that cutting-edge healthcare is not limited to private institutions.
