AIIMS Delhi’s Dr. Bhim Rao Ambedkar Institute Rotary Cancer Hospital has taken a major leap in oncology by officially launching its advanced robotic surgery program. The initiative, powered by the da Vinci surgical system, aims to expand access to precision-driven cancer care at one of the country’s busiest referral centers.
According to officials, the department successfully conducted around 100 robotic surgeries during its pilot phase, underscoring both patient demand and surgeon readiness. Currently, five trained surgeons are performing a wide spectrum of complex cancer procedures, including those involving the rectum, pancreas, oesophagus, urology and gynaecology. The system has proven particularly valuable for demanding operations such as very low rectal surgeries, Whipple’s procedures for pancreatic cancer, and advanced chest surgeries, where accuracy and control are critical.
Highlighting the impact, AIIMS Director Dr. M. Srinivas said, “The introduction of robotic-assisted surgery in our oncology department reflects AIIMS Delhi’s mission to expand equitable access to advanced healthcare. With cancer cases rising nationwide, the need for precision treatments is growing. By offering these surgeries free of cost, AIIMS is ensuring that advanced cancer care is accessible without financial barriers.”
Robotic-assisted surgery offers multiple benefits for patients, including smaller incisions, reduced blood loss, less pain, faster recovery, and fewer complications. Surgeons, meanwhile, gain enhanced visibility and control during procedures, improving outcomes in challenging cases.
Dr. Sunil Kumar, Head of Surgical Oncology, noted, “This program is transforming the way we treat complex cancers and sets new benchmarks for public-sector oncology care.”
Looking ahead, AIIMS Delhi plans to document outcomes, contribute to research, and share learnings with the wider surgical community. By combining high patient volumes with state-of-the-art technology, the institution hopes to generate insights that will shape best practices in cancer surgery across India.
