Driven by robotic technology, this cutting-edge system is all set to transform global surgery by enabling remote interventions that improve access to specialised care and boost international collaboration. Recently, the national capital witnessed the launch of a historic moment in the sector, reports ARCHANA JYOTI

On June 10, 2024, a historic moment unfolded at the Rajiv Gandhi Cancer Institute and Research Centre (RGCIRC) in Delhi. Led by Dr Sudhir Rawal, a pioneering figure in robotic surgery, the team at RGCIRC performed India’s first telesurgery in cancer care. The procedure, a Radical Cysto-Prostatectomy with Bilateral Lymph Nodes Removal, was conducted using the SSI Mantra Robot developed by SS Innovations, a  developer of India’s first indigenous surgical robotic system.

The surgery was executed from the SSI Office in Gurugram, while the patient remained at RGCIRC in Delhi. Despite the distance, the surgical team completed the complex procedure in one hour and forty-five minutes, marking a significant advancement in telesurgery capabilities.

The successful telesurgery at RGCIRC highlighted the potential of advanced robotic technologies to enhance precision and quality in surgical interventions. Telesurgery not only overcomes geographical constraints but also reduces the need for patients to travel long distances for specialized medical care, Dr Rawal elaborated.

This approach promises to democratize access to high-quality surgical procedures, particularly benefiting patients in remote areas with limited healthcare infrastructure, said Dr Sudhir Srivastava, founder, Chairman and CEO, of SS Innovations. Pioneer in robotic cardiac surgery and the brain behind the SSI Mantra System, Srivastava is popularly known as the Father of Surgical Robotics in India.

SS Innovations further advanced the field with the launch of SSI Mantra 3, the latest iteration of its indigenous surgical robotic system. Equipped with 5 slimmer robotic arms and an immersive 3D HD headset, it offers surgeons unparalleled precision and control during procedures. The system’s cost-effectiveness aims to make advanced robotic surgery accessible to healthcare institutions across India and beyond, aligning with the ‘Make in India’ initiative.

Alongside, it has achieved a historic feat in Indian medical science by completing the nation’s maiden human trial in telesurgery, signifying a monumental leap in surgical robotics.

Dr. Fredric Moll, Father of Surgical Robotics as Board Member and Vice Chairman said at an event held here to launch the innovation, “SSI Mantra 3 integrates cutting-edge advancements in robotic surgery, offering surgeons unparalleled precision and control for improved patient outcomes. It reinforces India’s position as a hub for technological innovation in healthcare.”

Moll has been a pivotal force in advancing robotic surgery and contributed significantly to the developmentof robots

Recently, SSI reached Nepal too, deploying India-made Robots to its healthcare system.

Dr. Mylswamy Annaduari, Ex-Director of ISRO Satellite Centre also known as ‘Moon Man of India’ said: “ The system represents the convergence of medical science in India and extends Indian innovation to surgeons worldwide. It is an affordable innovation, precisely what India needed.  India is racing ahead in medical science, and it is also racing to assist the entire world. ”

Dr Naresh Trehan, Chairman and Managing Director of Medanta, The Medcity, was equally vocal in appreciating the technology as he said: “I would like to take this opportunity to commend Dr Srivastava for his dedication in achieving the rapid development of the third version of the SSI Mantra 3. This remarkable accomplishment is a testament to his commitment and vision. We are eagerly looking forward to incorporating the Mantra 3 system in our hospitals, enhancing our medical capabilities and patient care.”

Addressing the launch of SSI Mantra and the breakthrough in telesurgery, Prof. Dr. Somashekhar SP, Chairman- Medical Advisory Board, Aster DM Healthcare- GCC & India, echoed similar views. “SSI has created the best technology robot at an affordable rate for the global market, all made in India. It is for the benefit of all. Any technology that doesn’t evolve with time will perish, and this is why we have version after version. “

For those who are not yet aware of this breakthrough technology, SSI Mantra 3 allows for smaller fingertip-sized incisions, leading to less pain, minimal blood loss, reduced scarring, faster recovery, and shorter hospital stays.

This most advanced surgical robotic system with its cost-effectiveness will make advanced robotic surgery more accessible to hospitals, doctors, and the ultimate beneficiary, patients.

The SSI Mantra 3 ensures unparalleled precision and efficiency across a wide range of multispecialty and the full spectrum of robotic cardiac surgery procedure, say experts. The minimally invasive approach aim to ensure reduced trauma to patients, resulting in less pain, less blood loss, and faster recovery times.

Despite these advancements, challenges such as latency in global networking, regulatory considerations, and initial costs of robotic systems continue to influence the adoption of telesurgery. However, ongoing developments in networking technologies, including trials of 5G networks to minimize latency, hold promise for overcoming these barriers. Navigating these challenges requires ongoing technological advancement, regulatory alignment, robust cybersecurity measures, comprehensive training programs, and a commitment to patient-centered care and ethical standards

Benefits of Telesurgery

Accessibility: Enables remote or underserved areas to access specialized surgical care.

Expertise: Allows surgical expertise to be delivered globally, benefiting patients without local specialists.

Cost Efficiency: Reduces travel costs and time for patients, making care more accessible.

Precision and Safety: Offers precise control and high-definition imaging, improving surgical outcomes.

Collaborative Care: Facilitates real-time collaboration among surgeons and healthcare professionals worldwide.

Infection Control: Reduces physical contact, lowering the risk of infectious disease transmission.

Education: Enhances surgical training and education globally.

Global Reach: Overcomes geographical barriers, expanding access to specialized procedures.

Challenges of Telesurgery

Technical Issues: Relies heavily on internet connectivity and robotic systems, vulnerable to disruptions.

Latency: Delay in signal transmission can impact surgical precision.

Security: Raises concerns about cybersecurity and patient data protection.

Regulatory Complexity: Varies across countries, affecting licensing and legal frameworks.

Cost: Implementation and maintenance can be expensive, limiting access in some regions.

Training: Requires specialized training for effective use, resource-intensive.

Patient Acceptance: Some patients may be hesitant due to the lack of physical presence.

Ethical Considerations: Informed consent, patient autonomy, and maintaining patient-centered care are critical.

Limited Applications: Not all procedures are suitable, depending on complexity and technical feasibility.