First Robotic Radical Nephrectomy With IVC Thrombectomy In Eastern India Performed By Apollo Cancer Centres

Apollo Cancer Centres (ACC), Kolkata, has successfully performed Eastern India’s first Robotic Radical Nephrectomy with Inferior Vena Cava (IVC) Thrombectomy for the removal of a renal tumour. Seventy-year-old Dulal Dutta underwent the procedure and was discharged within five days, showcasing the efficacy and precision of this advanced surgical technique.

Dutta's kidney had increased to 12 cm x 7 cm x 6 cm due to a malignant tumour measuring 6 cm x 5.5 cm x 5 cm, along with a 3 cm tumour thrombus in the IVC, the body's largest vein. This growth obstructed blood flow, creating a significant health risk. After consulting with various cancer centres,  Dutta’s family sought a minimally invasive alternative, which led them to ACC, Kolkata.

Dr Tarun Jindal, Senior Consultant, Uro-Oncology and Robotic Surgeon at ACC, led the team in performing the complex procedure. Utilising advanced robotic technology, the team successfully removed the tumour with remarkable precision, significantly reducing blood loss to just 100cc compared to the 500-600cc typically seen in open surgeries. This technique, a first in Eastern India, represents a significant advancement in uro-oncology and robotic surgery.

Despite pre-existing conditions such as renal failure, hypertension, and diabetes, Dutta was discharged just four days post-surgery. The minimally invasive approach, involving 8mm incisions instead of the traditional 30cm cut, resulted in less pain, reduced need for analgesics, quicker return of bowel function, and an earlier discharge.

Dr Tarun Jindal stated, “The integration of robotic technology in renal tumour removal has redefined complex surgical procedures. This case highlights the potential of robotic surgery to enhance surgical outcomes and minimise postoperative complications.”

Dr Anshuman Roy, an Anesthesiologist at ACC, added, “The precision of robotic surgery, coupled with meticulous anaesthesia and fluid management, has greatly improved treatment and recovery processes in complex cases.”

Dutta’s son, Debajit Dutta, expressed his gratitude, stating, “The advanced treatment and exceptional care provided by the team at Apollo Cancer Centres led to my father’s swift recovery, reaffirming our trust in their commitment to medical innovation.”

According to a recent GLOBOCAN report, kidney cancer accounts for 1.3 per cent of India's total cancer cases, with 16,861 new cases annually and a five-year prevalence rate of 2.84 per 100,000 people. These statistics highlight the urgent need for early detection and access to advanced treatments like robotic surgery to improve outcomes for kidney cancer patients in India.