Preeti Urology & Kidney Hospital Achieves Milestone with Rare Robotic Surgery for One-Year-Old

The baby, born to a cab driver in Rajendra Nagar area in Hyderabad, was born with congenital bilateral kidney swelling, a condition that, if left untreated, could severely impact kidney function. Typically, surgeries of this nature would have been performed as open surgeries or, more recently, through laparoscopy. However, in this case, Dr. Chandra Mohan opted for robotic surgery using the SSI Mantra Robotic System, an indigenously developed technology. The unique aspect of this surgery was the use of just four keyholes to operate on both kidneys sequentially, which is a rare feat in the global medical field.

In traditional laparoscopic procedures, surgeons must work close to the patient, making multiple incisions and manually maneuvering surgical tools for hours. Robotic surgery, however, allows surgeons to control mechanical arms via a console, enabling greater precision, reduced operation time, and minimal invasiveness. For this one-year-old patient, Dr. Chandra Mohan's team utilized four small keyholes to access both kidneys, performing a dual surgery with only these incisions. This method reduced the potential for repeated anesthesia exposure and the need for multiple hospital admissions, thus minimizing risks and expenses for the patient's family.

Dr. Chandra Mohan emphasized, "Performing robotic surgery on a one-year-old is challenging due to the complexity, precision required, and less space in the abdomen. However, the advantages are clear. By using a single set of keyholes for both sides, we were able to avoid additional incisions, reduce the baby’s hospital stay, and allow for a faster recovery. This technique is rare even on a global scale."

The outcome was exceptional. The baby was discharged within 24 hours, able to resume breastfeeding, passed motions the same day, and play without major post-operative discomfort. This rapid recovery contrasts sharply with open surgeries, which can require extended recovery periods.

As robotic technology becomes more affordable and accessible in India, procedures like these are expected to transform pediatric urology, offering safer and more effective options for young patients.

This achievement not only marks a significant milestone in the field of robotic surgery but also highlights India's growing capabilities in advanced medical care.