AIIMS Delhi Hits 1,000 Robotic Surgeries Milestone

All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi, has recently reached a significant milestone by completing 1,000 robotic surgeries. This achievement follows the institution's acquisition of the da Vinci robot in November 2024, a development that marks a new era in public healthcare.

The da Vinci robot system comprises a surgeon console, a patient cart with robotic arms, and a vision system providing a 3D view. This technology allows for extremely precise operations, particularly in confined anatomical spaces, resulting in smaller incisions and quicker patient recovery.

Since its implementation, AIIMS has observed substantial improvements in patient outcomes. These include a 50% reduction in post-operative pain, a 40% decrease in surgical site infections, and a 30% shorter hospital stay compared to traditional open surgeries. These benefits contribute to significantly reduced healthcare costs.

While the technology is highly effective, doctors note certain limitations. It is not suitable for immediate trauma or emergency surgeries due to the time required for setup. In rare instances of complications, a switch to traditional surgery may be necessary. Nevertheless, AIIMS's adoption of robotic surgery represents a crucial step towards accessible, high-precision surgical care for a larger population.