The Max Institute of Laparoscopic, Robotic, Bariatric Surgery & GI Surgery has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Intuitive Surgical, a global leader in minimally invasive technology and the pioneer of robotic-assisted surgery, to strengthen the adoption of robotic surgery across India.
The collaboration aims to enhance surgeon capabilities, develop structured training frameworks, and support wider access to robotic-assisted procedures for patients. By focusing on both skill development and responsible adoption, the partnership seeks to integrate robotic surgery more systematically into clinical practice.
The MoU was signed by Dr. Pradeep Chowbey, Group Chairman of the Max Institute of Laparoscopic, Robotic, Bariatric Surgery & GI Surgery and a globally recognised robotic surgeon; David J. Rosa, Chief Executive Officer of Intuitive; and Rohitt Mahajan, Vice President and General Manager, Intuitive India.
Emphasising the need to move robotic surgery beyond limited use in complex cases, Dr. Chowbey said that its true impact lies in broader, routine application. Drawing on his more than 40 years of experience in minimally invasive and robotic surgery, he noted that medical innovation delivers real value only when it becomes part of everyday clinical practice. With robust training systems and safety protocols, robotic platforms such as da Vinci can significantly improve the safety, precision, and efficiency of even commonly performed procedures, he added.
The partnership brings together Intuitive’s global expertise in robotic-assisted technology and the Max Institute’s clinical leadership to develop structured outcome benchmarks for routine surgeries. By addressing both complex and high-volume procedures, the initiative seeks to demonstrate how robotics can improve standardisation, precision, and efficiency, ultimately leading to more consistent patient outcomes and expanded access.
Commenting on the MoU, Rohitt Mahajan said that improving patient outcomes remains Intuitive’s core focus. He stated that the collaboration reflects a shared commitment to advancing minimally invasive care through structured training, responsible adoption, and close engagement with clinicians. The partnership aims to support surgical teams in reducing outcome variability while delivering high-quality care across a wide range of procedures.
Under the agreement, both organisations will collaborate on clinical research, with Max surgeons participating in Intuitive-led studies for approved indications, while Intuitive will support Max-initiated research through study design, data analytics, and publication. The MoU also outlines plans to establish a Centre of Excellence to generate clinical and economic evidence for robotic-assisted surgery, helping hospitals and healthcare systems make informed decisions and, over time, supporting the evolution of insurance frameworks to improve affordability and patient access where clinically appropriate.
