Vydehi Institute Partners with Intuitive for Robotic Surgery Training Program

This initiative, the first of its kind in a private hospital in India, aims to provide surgical oncology postgraduate trainees with critical exposure to robotic-assisted surgery and its clinical applications.

Vydehi Institute of Medical Sciences and Research Centre has joined hands with Intuitive, the leader in robotic-assisted surgery technology, to introduce the Intuitive Robotic Onboarding Program and Education (I-ROPE) for resident surgeons. 

This initiative, the first of its kind in a private hospital in India, aims to provide surgical oncology postgraduate trainees with critical exposure to robotic-assisted surgery and its clinical applications.

Speaking at the event, LK Atheeq, IAS, Additional Chief Secretary to the CM, Government of Karnataka, appreciated Vydehi Institute of Medical Sciences and Research Centre and Intuitive for their collaboration for equipping young surgeons with robotic-assisted surgery technology. He also mentioned that it would be great if this programme can be done at Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences as well, which could benefit a large number of medical professionals and students, enhancing their expertise and contributing to healthcare in Karnataka.

The I-ROPE program is designed for early-career surgeons, offering structured sessions that encompass the technology, its diverse applications in surgical practices, and its evolving role in modern medicine.

Further, at Vydehi Institute, residents will gain hands-on experience with the state-of-the-art da Vinci surgical system, one of the most advanced robotic surgical platforms available.

Sharing thoughts, Dr MS Ganesh, Professor & HoD of Surgical Oncology at Vydehi Institute of Medical Sciences and Research Centre, said, “The evolution of surgical care is being driven by technology, and robotic-assisted surgery is rapidly emerging as a crucial tool in the operating room. Early exposure to this technology provides residents with the ability to understand its advantages, develop critical decision-making skills, and explore how it integrates into various surgical specialties. At Vydehi Institute of Medical Sciences and Research Centre, we are committed to equipping future surgeons with the skills and knowledge necessary to adapt to advancements that will define the next era of surgical care.”

Despite the global rise in robotic-assisted surgery, access to this innovative technology remains limited within conventional surgical training programs in India. 

This collaboration seeks to address that gap by integrating robotic-assisted surgery into the training of future surgeons, ensuring they are well-equipped for the changing landscape of medical practices.

Commenting on the institute’s commitment to technological advancements in medical education, Chairperson Dr Kalpaja D A said, “Vydehi Institute of Medical Sciences and Research Centre is at the forefront of integrating cutting-edge technology into medical education and training. The introduction of I-ROPE in our hospital reflects our commitment to equipping future surgical oncologists with advanced skills in robotic-assisted surgery, ensuring better patient outcomes and medical excellence.”

Intuitive has previously expanded access to robotic-assisted surgery across several leading government medical institutions in India, including AIIMS Delhi, Kidwai Memorial Institute of Oncology in Bengaluru, and Armed Forces Medical College in Pune. With the addition of Vydehi Institute, the organization aims to further widen the reach of this transformative training.

“The execution of Robotic-assisted surgery skill building and education programs is an important step towards nurturing the next generation of surgeons in being future-ready for evolving surgical practices. We are excited to expand the I-ROPE program to private hospitals in India, supporting the country’s healthcare landscape’s evolution towards better patient outcomes through minimally invasive care.  Our collaboration with Vydehi reflects an effort to integrate robotic-assisted surgery techniques in the area of medical education in leading teaching institutes of India,” Rohitt Mahajan, Vice President and General Manager, Intuitive India stated.

Since its inception, the I-ROPE program has engaged approximately 350 resident surgeons, equipping them with essential skills in robotic surgical techniques. 

The program was inaugurated by L K Atheeq, IAS, Additional Chief Secretary to the Chief Minister of Karnataka, during an event at the Vydehi Institute of Medical Sciences and Research Centre. 

Other dignitaries present included Dr UT Iftikhar Ali Fareed, Chairman of the Allied & Healthcare Council of Karnataka, and Dr Riyaz Basha, Registrar of Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences, Karnataka.

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