Tanda hospital steps into future with robotic surgery

In a landmark advancement for healthcare in Kangra and surrounding districts, Dr Rajendra Prasad Government Medical College (Tanda Hospital) is set to launch robotic surgery services tomorrow. The project will make Tanda the second hospital in Himachal Pradesh after IGMC-Shimla (Chamiyana) to offer this cutting-edge medical technology.

This breakthrough will spare patients with serious and complex conditions the ordeal of travelling outside the state for advanced surgeries. With robotic systems now available locally, patients can save both time and money while benefiting from procedures that are more precise, less invasive and enable faster recovery.

The milestone has been achieved through the dedicated efforts of Dr Milap Sharma, Principal of Tanda Medical College. In preparation for the launch, hospital authorities, including Additional Director Major Dr. Avnindra Kumar Sharma and Medical Superintendent Dr. Vivek Banyal, conducted a detailed inspection of the facilities.

Experts from the Urology Department, Dr Angesh Thakur and Dr Kulbhushan Sharma, emphasised the unique advantages of robotic surgery. “Robotic arms can access areas that human hands cannot,” explained Dr Thakur. “With 3D imaging and precision controls, even micro-level procedures can now be performed with enhanced safety.”

The robotic system comprises a high-definition 3D camera and four robotic arms, operated by a surgeon at a specialised console. This technology enhances dexterity, accuracy and visualisation, ensuring minimal blood loss, reduced pain and shorter hospital stays for patients.

Though IGMC-Shimla was the first to install and train on the system, Tanda hospital’s rapid adoption places it at the forefront of advanced medical care in the state. Officials noted that if training had started earlier, Tanda might have become the first centre in Himachal to offer robotic surgery.

The Chief Minister will inaugurate the robotic surgery unit tomorrow, marking a transformative moment in Himachal’s healthcare journey and adding a prestigious milestone to Tanda Medical College’s legacy.