In a groundbreaking advancement for medical technology, Maharashtra has unveiled its first domestically developed surgical robot, SSI Mantra. Installed at Noble Hospitals and Research Centre in Pune, this system marks a pivotal moment in India’s journey toward self-reliance in healthcare innovation.
Developed in 2017 by Dr. Sudhir Srivastava, the SSI Mantra surgical robot is designed to enhance precision in complex procedures. This cutting-edge system includes:
- Five Lean Robotic Arms: Allowing for intricate and controlled surgical movements.
- 3D HD Headset: Providing surgeons with unparalleled visual clarity during operations, which is crucial in robotic surgery.
- Vision Cart with 3D 4K Imaging: Offering the surgical team a detailed view of the procedure.
This advanced robotic system is the first in India to gain approval from the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO). Marathi actor Prasad Oak inaugurated SSI Mantra, signaling its readiness to transform surgical care in the state.
THE FIRST ROBOTIC SURGERY IN MAHARASHTRA
Noble Hospitals has already performed its first robotic-assisted procedure using the SSI Mantra system. The procedure was a right extended hemicolectomy for a patient with colon carcinoma. This successful operation showcased the robot’s ability to deliver minimally invasive and life-saving interventions through advanced robotic surgery techniques.
Dr. Ashish Pokharkar, an oncosurgeon at Noble Hospitals, stated that the SSI Mantra would be utilized for a variety of procedures. These include general surgeries, Cardiothoracic interventions, Urology, Gynecology, and complex oncological operations.
ADVANTAGES OF ROBOTIC SURGERY
Robotic surgery offers multiple benefits over traditional surgical methods. According to Dr. H.K. Sale, Executive Director at Noble Hospitals, these include:
- Shorter Recovery Time: Smaller incisions minimize trauma, accelerating the healing process.
- Less Discomfort: Patients experience reduced pain compared to open surgeries carried out without robotic surgery.
- Fewer Complications: Enhanced precision lowers the risk of surgical errors.
- Quick Return to Normalcy: Patients can resume their daily activities sooner, improving quality of life.
HOW ROBOTIC SURGERY WORKS
Robotic surgery involves a surgeon controlling robotic arms from a console. The surgeon is guided by a 3D view of the surgical site on a 32-inch monitor. Safety cameras ensure the surgeon’s presence during the procedure, enhancing control and accuracy in the robotic surgery.
The SSI Mantra robot is uniquely modular, with detachable arms capable of performing diverse tasks, like heart surgeries. Its flexibility makes it suitable for various medical applications, cementing its role as a transformative technology in Indian healthcare.
REVOLUTIONIZING ACCESS WITH TELESURGERY
One of SSI Mantra’s standout features is its telesurgery capability. This allows surgeons to execute or guide procedures remotely, bringing specialized care to remote and underserved regions. Teleproctoring further enhances its potential by enabling real-time mentorship during operations, bridging gaps in skill and healthcare access through robotic surgery assistance.
A VISION FOR THE FUTURE OF HEALTHCARE IN INDIA
The introduction of SSI Mantra places Maharashtra at the forefront of robotic surgical advancements. It also reinforces India’s position as a hub for innovative healthcare solutions. The SSI Mantra system is set to redefine patient care. It offers precision and adaptability. It also has the ability to democratize surgical expertise and improve recovery outcomes across the nation, especially in procedures involving robotic surgery.
