About Author: Dr Ashish Gautam, Senior Director, Robotic and Laparoscopic Surgery, Max Super Speciality Hospital, New Delhi. Dr Ashish Gautam is a leading name in robotic, bariatric, and gastrointestinal surgeries. With extensive global training and 30,000+ successful procedures, he is recognized for pioneering advanced surgical programs and improving patient outcomes across India.
From open procedures to laparoscopy and now robotic-assisted interventions, each wave of technology has transformed patient care in India. Hospitals view robotics as a way to improve outcomes, while MedTech companies see opportunities to innovate. Robotic surgery is no longer limited to a single specialty—it is being applied in hernia repair, hepatobiliary surgery, colorectal procedures, gynecology, oncology, urology, and gastrointestinal operations. Bariatric and metabolic surgeries remain a major driver of growth, but they represent just one part of a broader shift.
Why Is Robotic Surgery Important?
Robotic platforms expand what surgeons can achieve in the operating room. They provide high-definition, three-dimensional visualization and wristed instruments that move with greater dexterity than the human hand. This enables higher precision, especially in complex cases such as reoperations involving scar tissue.
For patients, the benefits are significant: smaller incisions, reduced blood loss, less pain, and faster recovery. Hospital stays often shrink from a week to just two or three days, and patients return to work sooner. This lowers indirect costs—critical in India, where much of healthcare spending comes directly from household savings.
For hospitals, robotic systems make procedures more consistent and outcomes more predictable, strengthening patient trust and generating referrals from smaller facilities.
Outside of the Big Cities
Robotic systems were once confined to large corporate hospitals in metro cities due to prohibitive purchase and maintenance costs. Intuitive Surgical’s da Vinci platform long dominated the market, but with patents expiring, new entrants such as CMR Surgical’s Versius, SSI Mantra (India), Medtronic’s Hugo RAS, and Meril’s Mozo are increasing competition and driving down prices.
Flexible ownership models—leasing, pay-per-use, and shared arrangements—are also lowering barriers to adoption. As a result, hospitals in tier-2 and tier-3 cities like Lucknow, Jaipur, Coimbatore, and Bhubaneswar are establishing robotic units. Patients now access advanced care closer to home, saving both travel time and money.
“Robotic platforms expand what surgeons can achieve in the operating room. The systems give you three-dimensional, high-definition vision and wristed tools that can move more freely than your hand.”
Rise in Metabolic Surgery
India is witnessing a surge in obesity-related health challenges. NFHS-5 (2019–21) found that one in four adults is overweight. The Indian Council of Medical Research warns that obesity, high cholesterol, and abdominal fat contribute to diabetes, hypertension, arthritis, and certain cancers.
While lifestyle changes and medication help some, surgery often offers the most effective long-term solution. Procedures such as sleeve gastrectomy and gastric bypass reduce stomach size and alter hunger-regulating hormones. Performed robotically, these surgeries are safer and more precise.
Long-term evidence supports their impact. A landmark JAMA study tracking patients over a decade showed sustained weight loss and improved type 2 diabetes control, with many able to discontinue medication. This is particularly relevant in India, where obesity-driven diabetes is rising even among younger adults. Hospitals offering robotic bariatric surgery are addressing a growing national health need.
Other Fields that are Helped by Robotics
Robotics is transforming multiple surgical specialties. In oncology, robotic systems enable precise removal of prostate, kidney, cervical, and colorectal tumors with cleaner margins and reduced collateral damage. In gynecology, procedures such as hysterectomy and treatment for endometriosis have become safer and less invasive.
Urology was among the earliest adopters, with prostatectomy and nephrectomy now benchmarks for robotic excellence. Colorectal and hepatobiliary surgeries benefit from enhanced visualization and control, essential for complex resections. Even routine procedures like hernia repair show improved outcomes, as robotic assistance allows precise dissection and accurate mesh placement, reducing recurrence.
The versatility of robotic platforms ensures that hospitals can deploy them across multiple departments, maximizing their value beyond bariatric surgery.
Chances for Hospitals
Robotic surgery creates strategic advantages for hospitals. Patients increasingly prefer minimally invasive options, and one system can serve several departments, ensuring optimal utilization of resources.
Hospitals that invest in surgeon training and structured programs can build reputations as centers of excellence. They not only serve their own patients but also attract referrals from smaller facilities without robotic systems. Furthermore, robotic procedures enhance India’s position in global medical tourism, appealing to international patients seeking advanced yet affordable care.
“With new platforms, innovative financing, and broader access, robotic surgery in India is moving from niche to mainstream.”
