Kolkata Achieves Milestone with First Robotic Kidney Surgery

The procedure, performed by Dr R K Gopala Krishna, Director of Urology, utilized the Mantra Robot, the country’s first indigenous robotic system.

In a groundbreaking achievement, an eight-year-old boy from Mayurbhanj district, Odisha, underwent India's first robotic kidney surgery for hydronephrosis at the Fortis Hospital and Kidney Institute (FHKI) in Rashbehari, Kolkata. 

The procedure, performed by Dr R K Gopala Krishna, Director of Urology, utilized the Mantra Robot, the country’s first indigenous robotic system.

The young patient initially presented with severe abdominal pain on his left side and was diagnosed with left hydronephrosis, a condition resulting from a urinary blockage. Timely surgical intervention was critical to prevent irreversible kidney damage.

After a comprehensive evaluation, the medical team opted for robotic pyeloplasty to rectify the issue. With advanced capabilities like multi-arm dexterity and high-definition 3D vision, the robotic system allowed for precise surgery while minimizing tissue trauma. 

The 90-minute procedure was executed with minimal blood loss and no complications, leading to a swift recovery for the child.

Talking about the advantages of robotic surgery, Dr R K Gopala Krishna said, “Robotic surgery enabled us to perform the procedure with exceptional precision, ensuring minimal discomfort and a faster recovery. This was the first time robotic pyeloplasty was performed on a child at FHKI, marking a significant milestone in pediatric urological care.” 

He also spotlighted the importance of quick recovery for children, “Had he undergone open surgery, recovery would have taken at least a month, with significant pain and potential complications like hernia. Instead, robotic pyeloplasty allowed for a rapid discharge, and he was back to school and normal activities within a week.”

The boy’s father, Mr Giri, expressed gratitude for the successful treatment, saying, “We are extremely grateful to Fortis Hospital for the successful treatment of our child. The operation was conducted on time and went smoothly, and our child is making excellent progress. He was discharged just two days after the procedure, and since then, his recovery has been remarkable. He is eating well and experiencing no pain – even his ulcerative colitis is under control. We truly appreciate the medical team’s expertise and care in ensuring such a smooth recovery.”

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