Robot-Assisted Surgery Saves NRI Woman From Severe Uterine Prolapse At Fortis Bengaluru

Fortis Hospital, Cunningham Road has successfully treated a 39-year-old mother of two from the NRI community who was suffering from stage 3 uterine prolapse, a condition where the uterus slips out of its normal position. 

In a press statement on Tuesday, the healthcare service provider informed that  the patient's condition had progressed to the point where her uterus was protruding through her vagina, a rare occurrence for someone of her age as this typically happens post-menopause. The patient underwent a Robot-Assisted Sacro-Hysteropexy under the expert care of Dr. Rubina Shanawaz, Senior Consultant in Urogynaecology, Gynec-Oncology & Robotic Surgery at Fortis Hospital, Cunningham Road.

The patient had been managing her household responsibilities independently, including heavy lifting, which exacerbated her condition. She experienced severe back pain, chronic lower abdominal pain, and discomfort between her thighs due to the bulging, as well as difficulty emptying her bladder, which could have led to kidney complications. After suffering for four years and receiving multiple recommendations for a hysterectomy (surgery to remove the uterus) from various hospitals, she sought a less invasive alternative and turned to Fortis Hospital for a lasting solution.

Upon admission, a thorough clinical examination, including a biopsy and pap smear, was conducted to rule out malignancies. Given the root cause of the prolapse—lack of support to the uterus—Dr. Rubina Shanawaz opted for a uterus-preserving approach rather than the hysterectomy suggested elsewhere. The medical team chose Robot-Assisted Sacro-Hysteropexy, a state-of-the-art procedure designed to restore uterine support while preserving the uterus.

"For the Robot-Assisted Sacro-Hysteropexy, we used a special mesh to secure the uterus back in place," explained Dr. Shanawaz. “We also fixed the cervix and strengthened the pelvic floor to repair the damage caused by the prolapse. This approach not only helped us preserve the uterus but also restored its proper position, greatly improving the patient’s quality of life,” she added.

The patient was discharged just one day after the surgery and has made remarkable progress. She resumed her normal activities quickly and did not experience any issues with her menstrual cycle afterward. To ensure the best recovery, she was advised to avoid heavy lifting and to follow a rehabilitation plan with pelvic floor exercises. This comprehensive approach restored her mobility and relieved her pain, showcasing the success of the innovative surgical technique.

Akshay Oleti, Business Head at Fortis Hospitals, Bengaluru, commented, “At Fortis Hospital, we are committed to redefining patient care through the integration of state-of-the-art technology and innovative medical solutions. Our advanced robotic-assisted surgical systems and cutting-edge procedures exemplify our dedication to delivering exceptional care while continually pushing the boundaries of medical excellence. By leveraging the latest advancements in technology, we ensure that our patients receive the highest standard of treatment, tailored to their unique needs and aimed at enhancing their overall quality of life.”