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Medicover Hospital in Visakhapatnam achieved a medical milestone by successfully performing a complex robotic-assisted surgery to treat pancreatic cancer, marking the first of its kind in Andhra Pradesh. The innovative procedure, known as the Whipple procedure, was conducted using the advanced da Vinci robotic surgical system from Intuitive, a technology rarely employed for such intricate gastrointestinal surgeries worldwide.
Led by Biswabasu Das, Director of the Department of Surgical Gastroenterology at Medicover Hospital, the surgery aimed to treat a 77-year-old patient suffering from pancreatic cancer in the periampullary region. Initially diagnosed with progressive jaundice and systemic itching, the patient's condition necessitated a procedure that involved the removal and reconstruction of the pancreas, duodenum, bile duct, and gall bladder.
Biswabasu Das highlighted the significance of the robotic-assisted approach, stating, "Traditionally, the Whipple procedure requires extensive open surgery with large abdominal incisions, resulting in prolonged recovery times and postoperative complications. In contrast, robotic surgery allows for precise manoeuvres through smaller incisions, significantly reducing blood loss and postoperative pain. Our patient recovered swiftly, discharged within four days, and resumed normal activities soon after."
The introduction of robotic-assisted surgical systems at Medicover Hospital has revolutionised gastrointestinal surgeries, attracting a growing number of patients seeking minimally invasive treatment options. Since the installation of the da Vinci RAS system three months ago, the hospital has completed over 100 successful surgeries, ranging from routine procedures to complex gastrointestinal interventions.
Biswabasu Das emphasised the increasing demand for robotic surgery, stating, "Robotic-assisted surgery offers superior outcomes due to its precision and minimal invasiveness. As we continue to witness a surge in patient preference for robotic procedures, it underscores the importance of investing in advanced medical technologies to enhance patient care and surgical outcomes."
