Robotic kidney surgery is a minimally invasive surgery. It includes the use of advanced robots like the da Vinci Surgical Suite to perform kidney operations. Surgeons operate the robotic arms that come with mini-instruments. And a 360° camera, as they have more mobility and better visualisation from a panel. Robotic kidney surgery in India was first performed in 2010. There are several advantages of using robotic technology as compared to the traditional method. The smaller cuts, the lower blood loss, less pain, and faster recovery. Patients may be discharged faster from the hospital and have lower risks of complications.
Technology Behind Robotic Kidney Surgery
The technology used behind robotic kidney surgery is the da Vinci Surgical System. It consists of advanced equipment for surgeons, like a 3D camera with nanotechnology. And a robotic-armed side cart, too, which helps during the surgery. The nano camera helps surgeons to get a microscopic view of the organ where the surgery is to be done. And the robotic arms help them to hold tiny instruments, which are controlled by the surgeons. In India, it is mostly for surgeries such as kidney removal, repair of the kidney drainage system, and kidney transplants.
Applications of Robotic Kidney Surgery
Robotic kidney surgery is used to cure various kidney-related diseases, such as:
- Robotic surgery can be very helpful in cases of kidney surgery. For both partial as well as complete kidney removal in case of cancer detection.
- Robotic surgery bypasses the complicated procedure of removing kidney stones. With robotics, it will be removed without major cuts or an operation.
- Kidney Transplants are made easier and more accurate with the help of Robotic systems. It reduces the risk of kidney transplant failure for both donor and recipient.
- Ureteropelvic Junction Obstruction is a situation of blockage in the urine flow. This gradually led to kidney infection and kidney failure. However, with the help of robot-assisted pyeloplasty, this issue may be solved.
- Besides this, robotic technology also helps in the treatment of tumours or structural abnormalities.
Benefits of Robotics in Kidney Surgery
There are multiple types of benefits a person can get from robotics in kidney surgery:
- Low chance of getting an infection because of the small incision.
- With the help of robotics accuracy of the surgery is very high. It also helps in kidney transplants for children, as dealing with children’s cases is more critical.
- Most patients can return to their daily activities after a month.
- Most patients after the robotic operation stay for less than 2-3 days.
- Smaller incisions are made, and accurate movements greatly reduce blood loss during the operation.
Robotic Kidney Surgery Cost in India
The cost of robotic kidney surgery in India is flexible. Cost depends on multiple factors like the geographic location, type of surgery, and the quality of the hospital. But the average cost of a transplant varies from INR 1,55,000 to INR 11,75,000. It includes the staying charge, fees of surgeon, and aftercare. India provides this alternative option at an affordable price without any compromise in quality. If compared to the cost of a kidney transplant worldwide.
There are many factors that affect the cost of the transplant. Such as the reputation of the hospital and its geographic location. The health condition and its complications, and the type of transplant required for the patient.
Limitations and Challenges
Robotic kidney surgery, despite its many merits, there several challenges to be faced, such as:
- Expensive: Robotic surgeries are more expensive than traditional ones. As the latest technology and techniques are used for kidney transplant, this requires costly equipment and trained staff.
- Machines are limited: Not every Indian hospital is equipped with a robotic surgery system, especially in the smaller cities.
- Eligibility: Some cases might have to be operated on only by open surgery, as per the condition.
- Technical difficulties: However, it is very rare, but there is a need for a backup plan every time during a surgical procedure.
Future of Robotic Kidney Surgery in India
Robotic kidney surgery in India is expected to have a bright future. As it is becoming increasingly affordable, the technology is upgrading day by day, making it easier to handle, so that now even the smallest hospitals can handle it.
India has many well-trained, highly skilled, and experienced robotic surgeons who are making the operation easy to perform. Artificial Intelligence and machine learning are now being installed into robot systems so that the machines can be automated and perform in a concentrated way. Even the financial support from the government and the trust of people in robotic surgery will help in further cost reduction, making robot surgery a normal option for kidney treatment.
Leading Hospitals and Healthcare Centres in India
The following are some of the best kidney transplant hospitals in India that offer highly specialised robotic kidney surgeries:
- Max Hospital, Delhi
- Artemis Hospital, Gurgaon
- Medanta- The Medicity, Gurgaon
- Fortis Memorial Research Institute, Delhi
- Manipal Hospitals, Bangalore
Conclusion
Robotic kidney surgery in India is rapidly changing the way kidney operations are done by introducing accuracy, rapid recovery, and effectiveness. Whereas problems like costs and availability still exist. With top hospitals, experienced surgeons, continuous progress in technology, and government support, India has now become a top choice for patients across different countries searching for robot-assisted kidney surgery. As the technology becomes more accessible, a larger number of patients will be able to get the benefits of this life-changing surgery.