Chamiyana hospital first in Himachal to start robotic surgery

The Atal Institute of Medical Super Specialities at Chamiyana, in Shimla, is set to become the first medical institute in the state where surgeries will be performed using the latest robotic technology.

A state-of-the-art surgical robot, procured at a cost of Rs 28 crore on the lines of AIIMS Delhi, has arrived at Chamiyana. The installation process will be completed by July, after which surgeries will be done by using the advanced technology.

Atal Institute of Medical Super Specialties principal Dr Brij Lal said the robotic surgery would be beneficial for both patients and doctors. He explained that only a very small incision is required in robotic procedures, which means less blood loss and minimal need for transfusions. “Patients experience less pain, recover faster and can be discharged from hospital sooner,” he said.

The surgeons, too, will benefit from the technology as robotic systems would provide them precision and better control. “The surgical robots do not feel fatigued even during long surgeries, which allow them to perform more procedures in less time. The system also offers a clear and magnified 3D view inside narrow and complex areas of the body and reduces the chances of any errors,” the principal said.

Following the directions of Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, the robotic surgery equipment will soon be delivered to Dr Rajendra Prasad Government Medical College, Tanda, as well. Thereafter, the machines will be installed in IGMC, Shimla, Medical College,

Hamirpur, and other government medical colleges in a phased manner. This will benefit thousands of patients across the state and reduce the need to travel outside Himachal for expensive surgeries.

The introduction of robotic surgery is set to mark a new and historic chapter in the state’s medical history.