A US-based 32-year-old patient diagnosed with two large fibroids within her uterine muscle was successfully treated recently in an Indian hospital in the NCR region through robotic-assisted myomectomy, showcasing the reach of robot-assisted arms in the body parts where human hands cannot reach. The case also highlights the growing medical tourism in India as increasing number of foreign nationals travelling here to seek medical treatment.
The patient has been married for four years and had sought medical attention due to heavy and painful menstrual periods and her inability to conceive.
A medical examination revealed the presence of two fibroid, measuring 5 cm and 10 cm in size, causing her distressing symptoms and infertility issues, said Dr. Anjana Singh, Director & HOD, Obstetrics and Gynaecology at Fortis Hospital Noida.
Explaining about the functioning of the robot-assisted myomectomy, the doctor said that the sophisticated gadget helps the surgeon put tools and a tiny camera through small incisions on the lower belly.
“This gives the surgeon a better view of the area which moves the tools using a robotic controller. The advanced dexterity of the robotic arms allows meticulous fibroid removal while preserving the integrity of the uterus,” she said, adding that the use of robotic technology decreases postoperative pain, ensuring a more comfortable healing process.
The patient was under the follow-up of the doctors for over three weeks after the surgery, after which she flew back to the USA in the last week of December.
The doctors also said that any delay in surgery would have caused the fibroid to grow, worsening her symptoms and requiring a more complicated surgery thereafter.
“The benefits of this cutting-edge procedure were manifold. Firstly, the patient experienced a significant reduction in her heavy and painful menstrual periods, leading to a substantial improvement in her quality of life. Additionally, the removal of the fibroids eliminated the pressure on her uterine lining and cavity, increasing her chances of conceiving naturally.
The reduced recovery time meant that she could resume her daily activities relatively quickly, added Dr. Anjana Singh.
The case also highlights the growing demand of Indian medical tourism among foreigners looking for cost-effective services for high-quality treatments and new-age healthcare facilities. “As in this patient’s case not only were the waiting times for surgery unreasonably long, but the associated costs were also exorbitant in her country. This led her to explore alternative options. In India, she got medical reprieve at a low-cost budget,” said an official from Fortis Noida. .
According to reports, India’s medical tourism has grown rapidly in recent years, with an increase in foreign tourists from 183,000 in 2020 to 304,000 in 2021.
It is expected that the medical tourism market is likely to grow at a CAGR of more than 20% between 2023 and 2027 to more than USD 35 billion from current USD 6 billion.