Tanda Medical College Achieves Milestone with First Robotic Surgery

In a significant advancement for healthcare in Himachal Pradesh, the Department of Urology at the Dr. Rajendra Prasad Government Medical College in Tanda conducted its inaugural robotic surgery on March 15, 2024. This pioneering operation was performed on a female patient diagnosed with kidney cancer, marking a new era of advanced minimally invasive surgical care in the region.

The Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh virtually inaugurated the program, praising the medical team for introducing cutting-edge technology to the state. The surgery involved the removal of a tumour that affected nearly one-third of the patient’s left kidney. Utilizing a kidney-sparing technique, the surgical team successfully excised the tumour while preserving the surrounding healthy tissue.

Expert Team and Advanced Technology

The surgical procedure was executed by a skilled team from the Urology Department, which included Dr. Kulbhushan and Dr. Angesh. They operated under the guidance of Dr. Dharmender Aggarwal, a Senior Consultant at Fortis Hospital in Mohali, who brings extensive experience with over 800 robotic surgeries to his credit. The introduction of robotic surgery at Tanda Medical College symbolizes a vital improvement in surgical capabilities, previously available only in larger cities like Chandigarh and Delhi.

The robotic surgical system, recently installed at the college, enhances the quality of care for patients in Kangra and surrounding areas. Robotic surgery is known for its precision, leading to faster recovery times, minimal blood loss, and shorter hospital stays due to smaller incisions. These benefits are crucial for patients facing complex cancers and other intricate medical conditions.

Officials are optimistic that this development will significantly impact patient care in Himachal Pradesh. The availability of advanced surgical techniques at local medical facilities reduces the need for patients to travel long distances for essential procedures, thereby improving access to healthcare services.

As healthcare technology continues to evolve, the successful implementation of robotic surgery at Tanda Medical College sets a promising precedent for future advancements in the region’s medical landscape. This milestone is not only a testament to the dedication of the surgical team but also a significant step toward enhancing healthcare outcomes for the local population.