Overview
Robotic surgery is expanding rapidly in India, with over 70 centers and 500 trained surgeons. These experts have performed more than 12,800 surgeries in the last 12 years. This technology enhances the precision and control of complex surgeries, often integrating with traditional techniques to meet specific case needs. The system generally includes a camera arm and a tool arm, operated by surgeons via a console that offers a detailed 3D view of the operative area. This method improves surgical accuracy and reduces recovery time.
You might be wondering about the conditions that can be treated by robotic surgery. Read further to find out more.
What Are the Conditions Treated by Robotic Surgery in India?
Robotic surgery is beneficial in the successful and precise completion of complex procedures. Many diseases have complicated processes involved. In such cases, robotic surgery is a boon for the surgeon to keep up flexibility and control. Hence, nowadays, many doctors in India turn to robotic-assisted surgeries to deliver the best results.
General - Adrenalectomy, Cholecystectomy, Esophagectomy, Gastric Bypass, Heller Myotomy, Thoracic, Esophageal surgery, Thymectomy, Mediastinal Tumor, Resection, Lobectomy.
Cardiac- Atrial Septal Defect Repair, Mitral Valve Repair, Coronary artery bypass.
Others- Gallbladder removal, Hip replacement, Hysterectomy, Kidney removal, Kidney transplant, Mitral valve repair, Pyeloplasty.
Some interesting facts of Robotic Surgery in India
- In the year 2000, the FDA approved the Da Vinci system, an urologic robotic surgery.
- AIIMS, New Delhi, was among the first to adopt robotic neurosurgery in 2012, and since then, over 1,200 robotic neurosurgical procedures have been performed.
- The decade that followed (2007–2017) saw massive growth in robotic surgery in India.
- In the country, 12,800 surgeries have been conducted over the last 12 years.
- Robotic-assisted hysterectomies have become a popular option, with over 20,000 such procedures performed in India annually.
- Robotic systems are utilized in cardiac surgeries, with Narayana Health performing over 500 robotic heart surgeries each year.
- India sees more than 1,500 robotic-assisted bariatric surgeries annually, significantly improving patient recovery times.
- Over 10,000 robotic knee and hip replacements have been conducted in India, enhancing the accuracy and longevity of these implants.
- Robotic thoracic surgeries, including lobectomies, are becoming more common, with India performing approximately 500 such procedures annually.
- Robotic-assisted plastic surgeries, including breast reconstructions and facial surgeries, are on the rise, with several hundred procedures performed each year in leading hospitals.
Don't stop; scroll down to explore the best hospitals in India for robotic surgery.
Which Are the Best Robotic Surgery Hospitals in India?
India's healthcare infrastructure is highly appealing to those seeking affordable medical tourism. India is also growing technologically advanced and is continuously investing in procuring the best treatment technologies from around the world. Hence, you can be sure of getting the best treatment here in India. If you're looking for robotic surgery in India, we have listed some of the best robotic surgery hospitals in India.
1. Apollo Hospital, Delhi
- State-of-the-art operating theaters are equipped with the da Vinci surgical system, the most advanced platform for minimally invasive surgery.
- Four-armed surgical robotic system is a breakthrough in surgical technology.
- Uses Renaissance robotic surgery designed specifically for spine surgery.
- Used in the specialties of urology, gynecology, Cardiac, GI, Bariatrics and Paediatrics.
2. Hinduja Hospital, Mumbai
- Experience the cutting-edge Da Vinci Xi Robot equipped with state-of-the-art features such as a motion table, an air seal system, and a drop-in probe ultrasound.
- India's first integrated motion table allows precise and accurate targeting of surgical body parts by dynamically positioning the patient.
- The AirSeal System is the world's first 3-in-1 insufflation management system to automatically maintain desired pressure during surgery in the body.
3. Fortis Hospital, Delhi
- It has the Center for Excellence for Robotic Surgery.
- Offer robotic surgery for gynecological, cancer, and urological surgeries.
4. Max Hospital, Delhi
- It is one of the largest robotic surgical programs in India.
- Equipped with 15 advanced surgical robotic systems, including Da Vinci X, Da Vinci Xi, Next Gen Versius, ExcelsiusGPS, and CORI surgical systems.
- More than 150 trained robotic surgeons
- Used in oncology, transplant, spinal, and joint replacement surgeries.
5. Medanta Hospital, Delhi
- Da Vinci robotic surgery system.
- Used for heart valve diseases, cancers, gall bladder disorders and fibroid tumors
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Want to know about the best surgeons you can consult? Scroll down to find the list of best Robotic surgery doctors in India.
Best Doctors for Robotic Surgery in India
India has numerous surgeons who are highly qualified and trained in performing robotic surgeries with the utmost precision. They treat patients with care and respect and ensure an effective outcome. Many surgeons work in the best hospitals with the best infrastructure for robotic surgeries.
You can find below the list of top robotic surgery doctors in India.
Robotic surgery Doctors in Mumbai
1. Dr. Rajesh Mistry
- Specialize in esophageal robotic and Pulmonary robotic surgery.
- Director of Dept. of Oncology and Consultant Surgeon, Thoracic Foregut and Head Neck Oncology.
- Performed more than 1000 surgeries
- Current hospital- Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, Mumbai
2. Dr. Mehul Bhansali
- Experience- 32 years
- Practices at H N Reliance Foundation Hospital, Mumbai
- Trained in Japan and Hong Kong
- Specialty: Robotic surgery, Surgical oncology, Gynecologic oncologist, Hemato oncology
3. Dr. Anil Heroor
- Specializes in Breast Cancer, Gastrointestinal Cancer, Robotic surgery, and Minimal Access Surgery (MAS).
- Additional training at Memorial Sloan Kettering Hospital, NY, USA, and KURUME University Hospital, Japan.
- Expertise in Thoracic surgery, including lung cancer and mediastinal tumors, as well as Breast cancer and Oesophageal Cancer.
Robotic surgery doctors in Delhi
4. Dr. Archit Pandit
- Specialise in Laparoscopic and Robotic cancer surgeries
- Fellowships across Japan and South Korea
- Current Hospital: Max Cancer Centre Shalimar Bagh and Max Pitampura.
5. Dr. Jotinder Khanna
- Speciality: Thyroid, parotid, early oral cancers, breast cancer, General Surgeon, Bariatric Surgeon, Laparoscopic Surgeon, Proctologist, Robotic surgery
- Performed India's only accredited program of Minimal Access Surgery (Laparoscopy).
Robotic Surgery Doctors in Bangalore
6. Dr. H V Shivaram
- Trained from leading institutions of our country and also from the UK, USA & Germany.
- Specialty: Laparoscopic surgery, pancreatic surgery, Gastrointestinal surgery and bariatric/ metabolic surgery, Robotic surgery.
- Current hospital: Aster Hospital
7. Dr. Mahesh Chikkachannappa
- Current hospital: Aster CMI Hospital
- MBBS, MS, DMAS FALS (Robotic surgery)
- Pioneer in single incision laparoscopic cholecystectomies and Sleeve gastrostomies
- Speciality: General Surgeon, Laparoscopic Surgeon, Bariatric Surgeon, Robotic Surgeon
Robotic surgery doctors in Chennai
8. Dr. Venkat Subramanian
- Proficient in robotic surgery, urology and andrology
- Current hospital: Sakthi Hospital & Research Center in Triplicane(Chennai).
- Speciality: Vasectomy, Testicular surgery, Robotic surgery, prostate laser surgery etc.
9. Dr. Karthik Gunasekaran
- Speciality: Liver Disease Treatment, Anal fissure surgery, Robotic surgery, Piles surgery, Robot-assisted prostatectomy, Laparoscopy .
- Fellowship and training in USA
- Current hospital: Metromale Clinic & Fertility Center in T Nagar (Chennai)
Robotic surgery doctors in Hyderabad
10. Dr. Kammela Sreedhar
- F.R.U.S. (Fellow Robotic Urology Surgery), Henry Ford Health System, Detroit, Michigan, USA.
- Practice: Dr. Sreedhar's Kidney, Gyn and IVF.
- Speciality: Urology, Andrology, Sexology, Laparoscopy, Robotic surgery.
- Performed more than 56,000 endo-urological & Laparoscopic, LASER stone removal procedures.
- Removed worlds Larget Urethral diverticular Stone
11. Dr. Ramesh Vasudevan
- Specialises in Robotic Hysterectomy
- Practice: Apollo Hospitals
- Speciality: Laparoscopy, general surgery, Gastrointestinal surgery, Robotic surgery.
Book your appointment today for the best treatment for your unique situation.
What Does Robotic Surgery Cost in India?
India is renowned for providing high-quality healthcare at affordable costs. In 2023, the cost of robotic surgery in India varies, with the following estimated costs:
Minimum Cost: Approximately $1,893
Average Cost: Around $8000
Maximum Cost: Up to $14,667
These costs depend on the type of surgery, the hospital, and other associated factors. India's advanced surgical procedures are not only high in quality but also affordable, making it an appealing choice for patients. The expertise available here offers top-notch medical care at a fraction of the cost compared to many Western countries.
We have provided a detailed cost comparison of different types of robotic surgeries for patients looking for affordable treatment options.
Look at the below table and compare the costs of robotic surgery in various countries!
Type | USA | UK | India | Thailand | Singapore |
Head and Neck | $36,750 | $29,400 | $6,000 | $7,725 | $9,270 |
Gynecology | $31,500 | $25,200 | $5,500 | $7,210 | $8,240 |
Cardiothoracic | $42,000 | $33,600 | $7,000 | $8,240 | $9,785 |
Abdominal | $26,250 | $21,000 | $5,000 | $6,695 | $7,725 |
Note: These are estimated costs and are subject to change as per location and type of surgery.
If you need more detailed information on costs specific to your treatment, connect with us now for a free consultation.
What is the Cost of Robotic Surgery in Major Cities in India?
The below table shows the price of robotic surgery in various cities in India.
City | Estimated Cost Range (INR) |
Pune | Rs. 1,60,000 - Rs. 12,00,000 |
Hyderabad | Rs. 1,65,000 - Rs. 11,50,000 |
Chennai | Rs. 1,50,000 - Rs. 10,00,000 |
Gurgaon | Rs. 1,70,000 - Rs. 12,50,000 |
Mumbai | Rs. 1,80,000 - Rs. 13,00,000 |
Delhi | Rs. 1,62,500 - Rs. 11,00,000 |
Bangalore | Rs. 1,65,000 - Rs. 12,00,000 |
Only knowing the costs will not suffice, you may also read about the factors that may affect these costs!! Read ahead to find out.
What Factors Affect the Robotic Surgery Cost in India?
The various factors that are responsible for affecting the cost are:
- Type of Surgery: Different surgeries have varying complexities and durations, impacting the cost.
- Surgeon's Expertise: Experienced surgeons with specialized training in robotic surgery might charge more.
- Hospital Facilities: The cost can vary based on the hospital's infrastructure and the technology used.
- Location of the Hospital: Hospitals in metropolitan cities may have higher costs compared to those in smaller towns.
- Medications and Post-Surgery Care: The cost of medication, post-operative care, and any additional treatments can add to the overall expense.
- Hospital Stay Duration: Longer hospital stays due to complex procedures can increase the cost.
How Successful is Robotic Surgery in India?
- According to the data from NCBI, the success rate of robotic surgery is around 94% to 100% in India. There are much fewer complications in robotic surgery as compared to conventional approaches.
- Success Rates of Cardiac Procedures:
Robotic heart surgery offers advantages—20% shorter hospital stays and a 30% lower infection rate compared to open-heart surgery.
- Success Rates of Gastrointestinal Surgeries:
In India, robotic-assisted surgeries for complex cases, are endorsed by the American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons. They bring benefits like reduced pain, earlier discharge, and faster return to routine activities.
- The duration of the operation also decreased as a result.
- Robotic surgery also ensures significantly less blood loss, making the success rates even higher.
Does Health Insurance Cover Robotic Surgery in India?
Yes, health insurance plans in India cover robotic surgery under specific conditions:
Mandatory Coverage:
As per the IRDAI regulations (2019), all health insurance companies must offer coverage for at least one modern treatment, including robotic surgery. This implies that at least one plan within each insurer's portfolio must cover robotic surgery costs.
Conditions for Coverage:
Robotic surgery coverage is not automatic, meaning specific conditions need to be met for insurance to cover the costs. These can include:
Doctor's Recommendation: The surgery must be recommended by a qualified surgeon trained in robotic techniques for the specific ailment.
Medical Necessity: The procedure must be deemed medically necessary as the most optimal treatment option for your condition.
Pre-Approval: Obtaining prior approval from the insurance company for the procedure may be required.
Waiting Period: Some plans may have a waiting period (e.g., 1-3 years) before covering robotic surgery, especially for pre-existing conditions.
Sub-Limits: Coverage might be subject to sub-limits, meaning the insurance company pays a pre-defined amount for robotic surgery while you cover the remaining expenses.
What the Coverage Encompasses:
Coverage for robotic surgery typically includes:
- Hospitalization charges
- Surgeon's fees
- Anesthesia fees
- Nursing charges
- ICU charges
- Pre-hospitalization and post-hospitalization expenses associated with the surgery.
Free Robotic Surgery in India
While completely free robotic surgery in India may be rare, there are accessible options:
Government Initiatives:
- Ayushman Bharat: Government-funded healthcare scheme providing free and subsidized care, with occasional approval for robotic surgery based on necessity.
- State-Specific Schemes: Some states like Kerala and Tamil Nadu have health insurance covering robotic surgery under certain conditions.
Charitable Organizations:
- Non-profit hospitals and trusts offer subsidized or free robotic surgery for eligible underprivileged patients, relying on donations.
- Crowd-funding Platforms: Platforms like Milaap and Impact Guru help patients raise funds for medical treatments, including robotic surgery.
Private Hospitals:
- Subsidized Packages: Some private hospitals offer discounted packages or financial assistance for robotic surgery.
- Clinical Trials: Participation in trials for new techniques can provide access to robotic surgery at no cost. However, it's crucial to understand the potential risks and benefits involved before enrolling in any trial.
Still confused about choosing India for robotic surgery? Here is why you should pick India.
Why Choose India for Robotic Surgery?
Indian healthcare is expanding rapidly and has reached a new degree of achievement. Here is why India is getting popular for robotic surgeries around the globe:
- Highly Skilled Surgeons:
India boasts well-trained surgeons proficient in advanced robotic techniques, gaining global recognition for successful procedures.
- Advanced Technology:
Indian hospitals invest in state-of-the-art robotic systems, like da Vinci Surgical Systems, offering precision. Many hospitals provide training programs in robotic-assisted surgery with international collaboration.
- Cost-Effective:
Medical procedures in India are cost-effective, attracting international patients seeking top-notch healthcare at affordable prices. A "Made in India Surgical Robot" has revolutionized affordability in healthcare.
- Quality Healthcare:
Internationally accredited hospitals in India adhere to global standards in patient safety and outcomes, ensuring the best clinical coordination and patient care.
- Medical Tourism:
India's growing medical tourism industry offers comprehensive packages, including travel, accommodation, and post-operative care for international patients.
- Language Skills:
Indian medical professionals are fluent in English, facilitating easy communication with international patients.
With numerous hospitals and clinics nationwide, patients have a range of options, making India a preferred destination for advanced medical treatments, including robotic surgery.
FAQs
What types of surgeries are performed using robots in India?
In India, robotic surgery is used for a variety of procedures, including heart surgery, joint replacements, and surgeries involving the prostate, kidney, and gynecological issues.
How long does recovery take after robotic surgery in India?
Recovery time after robotic surgery is typically shorter than traditional surgery. Most patients experience faster healing, with many returning to normal activities within a few weeks, depending on the surgery type.
What training do surgeons need to perform robotic surgery in India?
Surgeons in India require specialized training to perform robotic surgery. This includes hands-on training with robotic systems and often certification from recognized institutions.
Is robotic surgery covered by insurance in India?
Coverage for robotic surgery by insurance in India varies by policy. Patients should check with their insurance provider to understand if and how much of the cost of robotic surgery is covered.
How widely available is robotic surgery across India?
While robotic surgery is available in major Indian cities and leading hospitals, it is limited in smaller cities and rural areas due to the high cost of robotic systems and the specialized training required for surgeons.
