The Rajiv Gandhi Cancer Institute and Research Centre (RGCIRC) has marked a significant milestone in medical technology with the successful completion of a groundbreaking clinical trial on telesurgery, utilizing the SSI Mantra Surgical Robotic System. This pioneering trial included six surgeries, starting with a patient undergoing treatment for urinary bladder carcinoma and followed by nephrectomy, hysterectomy, and cystectomy. The trial demonstrated that telesurgery is both safe and effective, paving the way for broader public access to this innovative medical practice in India.

The trial was overseen by a team of expert surgeons led by Dr. Sudhir Rawal, Medical Director & Chief of Genito-Uro Oncology at RGCIRC, along with Dr. Vandana Jain, Dr. Amitabh Singh, and Dr. Ashish Khanna. The procedures were executed seamlessly, with no technical issues or surgical complications, confirming that telesurgery meets the high standards of traditional operating rooms.

RGCIRC’s collaboration with SS Innovations, the creator of the SSI Mantra robotic system, reflects their ongoing commitment to enhancing healthcare accessibility across India. This partnership is part of the broader mission to 'decentralize excellence' and position India as a leader in global surgical innovation. The successful trial also supports the 'Make in India' initiative, showcasing the practical application of domestically developed technology in real-world settings.

Dr. Sudhir Rawal highlighted RGCIRC’s dedication to incorporating advanced technologies for patient benefit. “Our partnership with SSI focuses on leveraging cutting-edge medical technology to empower surgeons and transform surgical procedures. The successful trials will help establish telesurgery as a viable medical procedure and expand access to advanced healthcare services.”

A major benefit of telesurgery is the ability for super-specialists to perform surgeries remotely, allowing qualified surgeons at the operating theatre (OT) to manage the procedure. This approach reduces travel costs for medical professionals and lowers hospitalization expenses for patients, enhancing access to high-quality care, especially in tier 2 and tier 3 cities.

This successful trial builds on RGCIRC’s history of innovation, beginning with India’s first telesurgery in cancer care. The initial telesurgery, performed in collaboration with SS Innovations, was a landmark achievement in overcoming geographical barriers in healthcare delivery. The continued success of these trials reinforces RGCIRC’s and SSI’s commitment to setting new standards in the medical field.

With the trial’s successful outcomes, the future of telesurgery appears promising. This technology is set to revolutionize healthcare delivery by making advanced surgical procedures more accessible and affordable, particularly in underserved areas. RGCIRC and SSI are leading the way in a new era of medical excellence, transforming access to specialized care across India.