MNJ Performs 250 Free Robotic-Assisted Cancer Surgeries

Hyderabad: MNJ Institute of Oncology, a government-run tertiary cancer center with over five decades of service, has performed more than 250 robot-assisted cancer surgeries free of charge over the past 30 months for patients from economically weaker and middle-income backgrounds.

A significant portion of these procedures were performed for gynecological cancers, which constitute a significant portion of the institute’s surgical workload. More than 150 robot-assisted gynecological cancer surgeries have been performed in the last two years; These surgeries were performed for cancers of the cervix, uterus, and ovaries that often required surgery, especially in anatomically narrow pelvic areas where precision is critical.

According to India’s National Cancer Registry, cervical cancer remains among the most commonly diagnosed cancers in Indian women and contributes to a significant share of cancer-related morbidity and mortality. While cervical cancer remains the main focus, uterine cancer is another condition. This is where robotic-assisted surgery gives surgeons a clear advantage in delivering good results.

Commenting on the institution’s approach, MNJ Cancer Hospital Surgical Oncology Specialist Dr. Ramesh Maturi said: “Our experience with the da Vinci surgical system has supported our ability to perform complex gynecological cancer surgeries within the public healthcare system. In gynecological cancers, where surgeries are often performed in anatomically narrow pelvic areas, the robotic platform provides greater control and precision, including the ability to perform nerve-sparing procedures that can help reduce post-operative sexual and urological complications.” complications.”

At the MNJ Institute, robot-assisted surgery has been selectively adopted for complex pelvic procedures, including radical hysterectomies and staging surgeries, especially in cases where standard laparoscopic approaches may be technically challenging.

MNJ Cancer Hospital director Dr. “As a public agency providing specialized cancer care, our responsibility extends beyond providing advanced technology to ensuring that this technology is used in ways that strengthen access, consistency and accountability in patient care,” said Joseph Benjamen.

Dr Umakanth Goud and Dr Murlidhar, professors and unit heads, Department of Surgical Oncology, MNJ Oncology Institute, have been instrumental in the adoption and clinical integration of robot-assisted surgery, strengthening both patient care and surgical practice at the institute.