Experts Explore Robotic Surgery’s Role in Cardiac Care Evolution

A recent webinar organized by Meril in partnership with Deccan Herald, part of their ongoing campaign “Treatment Zaroori Hai,” explored the latest trends in cardiac surgery. Held on January 15, 2026, the event featured leading cardiac surgeons from Bengaluru discussing the impact of robotic and minimally invasive surgical techniques on modern heart care. As cardiac diseases rise in India due to lifestyle changes and ageing populations, the webinar aimed to clarify the benefits and limitations of these advanced surgical options for patients and their families.

During the session, Sanjeev Bhatt, Senior Vice President of Strategy at Meril, emphasized the necessity of advancing healthcare solutions to enable patients to lead longer, healthier lives. He stated, “An enduring commitment to advancing healthcare solutions is the need of the hour so that more patients can live longer, healthier lives.” Bhatt highlighted the importance of research and development in producing scientifically validated medical devices that address unmet clinical needs.

The panel included renowned experts such as Dr. Sudarshan, a vascular surgeon with over 17 years of experience; Dr. Adil Sadiq, Senior Consultant and Head at Sakra World Hospital; Dr. Thiruthani Kumaran, a specialist in robotic cardiac surgery; and Dr. Arul Furtado, Senior Consultant Cardiothoracic Surgeon at Aster Hospitals. This diverse group brought a wealth of knowledge to the discussion, which was hosted live by Sneha Ramesh and streamed across multiple platforms, allowing widespread engagement.

One central theme emerged: the evolution of cardiac surgery towards a patient-centric approach. Today’s surgeons focus not only on whether a procedure can be performed safely but also on which method will yield the best long-term outcomes with minimal disruption to the patient’s life. The panelists agreed that this shift indicates a maturity in both technology adoption and clinical decision-making.

Robotic-assisted and minimally invasive techniques were designed to fill specific clinical gaps. Many patients who could benefit from surgery often delay or avoid it due to fears of pain or lengthy recovery. These advanced methods aim to reduce surgical trauma, enhancing patient acceptance without compromising safety or effectiveness.

Despite the advantages, the panel underscored that smaller incisions do not automatically equate to success. Dr. Sudarshan pointed out that while patients typically experience less post-operative pain and quicker recovery, these benefits are only meaningful when procedures are appropriately matched to individual needs. Surgeons must engage in meticulous planning and detailed imaging, as these techniques require precision and careful execution.

Another pressing issue discussed was the late presentation of heart valve diseases in India. Patients often dismiss symptoms like breathlessness or fatigue as age-related, leading to late diagnoses when treatment options become limited. The experts stressed that early intervention not only preserves heart function but also expands the spectrum of available treatment options, including minimally invasive methods.

Despite the rapid technological advancements in cardiac surgery, traditional open-heart surgery remains essential, particularly for complex cases such as multi-valve disease or redo surgeries. The panel reiterated that technology serves as an enabler rather than a substitute for sound surgical judgment.

Throughout the discussion, patient selection was highlighted as a critical factor. Proper evaluation for surgical candidacy must consider not only anatomical and disease severity but also a patient’s overall health, co-morbidities, and support systems at home. A technically successful procedure does not guarantee a smooth recovery if the patient faces challenges afterward.

The topic of cost also surfaced, particularly regarding robotic surgery in India. While initial costs may be higher, faster recoveries can lead to reduced indirect expenses. Affordability and access remain crucial, with advanced technologies not necessarily being the sole or superior option.

Panelists emphasized the importance of hospital infrastructure and the expertise of the entire surgical team. Successful advanced cardiac surgery relies on an integrated system that includes quality imaging, specialized anaesthesia, perfusion support, and trained nursing staff. Skilled surgeons need a supportive environment to achieve consistent outcomes.

The conversation also touched upon integrating enhanced recovery pathways into cardiac care. Standardized protocols for pain management, nutrition, and rehabilitation have proven effective in improving patient outcomes. Minimally invasive and robotic surgeries align well with these structured recovery programmes, further reducing physiological stress.

As the webinar concluded, the experts conveyed a balanced message: the future of cardiac surgery lies not in choosing one technique over another but in mastering all available options. They agreed that true progress emerges from patient-focused decision-making rooted in experience, evidence, and ethical practice.

Through initiatives like “Treatment Zaroori Hai,” Meril and Deccan Herald foster informed discussions about complex healthcare topics, bridging the gap between medical expertise and public understanding. For patients facing challenging decisions regarding heart surgery, the webinar underscored a vital principle: selecting the right treatment at the right time is fundamental to successful care.

Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article reflect those of the brand concerned and should not be interpreted as medical advice. Please consult your treating physician for more information.