Media Release

Mangaluru, May 28: The department of obstetrics and gynaecology at Father Muller Medical College Hospital (FMMCH) has enhanced its surgical capabilities by procuring the latest laparoscopic surgical system from Olympus. This state-of-the-art equipment marks a significant advancement in the hospital's commitment to patient-centred care, offering improved precision, safety, and outcomes in gynaecological surgeries.

The Olympus laparoscopic system was unveiled and blessed by director Fr Richard Aloysius Coelho at the Labour Theatre Complex on May 27, in the presence of management committee members, faculty from the departments of obstetrics and gynaecology and anaesthesia, and labour OT staff.

Dr Deepa Kanagal, head of the department of OBG, highlighted that the newly acquired instrument is the most advanced of its kind in Mangaluru. She explained that the multi-component system significantly enhances surgical techniques and marks a technological upgrade for the department.

The department, well-trained in laparoscopic procedures, routinely performs a range of surgeries—from simple laparoscopic salpingectomies for ectopic pregnancies and ovarian cystectomies to complex endometriotic surgeries and total laparoscopic hysterectomies (TLH), including cases with previous surgical history. The department claims to perform the highest number of laparoscopic surgeries among medical colleges in the city.

Components of the Olympus system include:

1. VISERA ELITE III – Olympus

This is Olympus’ latest surgical imaging platform, combining 4K Ultra High Definition, infrared imaging, and Narrow Band Imaging (NBI) in a compact integrated unit. It supports a range of specialities including general surgery, gastrointestinal, hepatobiliary, and oncology.

Key features:

• Infrared (IR) imaging for enhanced identification of lymph nodes, tumours, and bile ducts

• Continuous auto-focus and real-time sharp imaging

• Picture-in-picture mode for simultaneous standard and infrared views

• Overlay image function for improved anatomical orientation

• Yellow enhancement mode for better tissue differentiation

• 3D imaging upgrade option

• AI and molecular technology readiness

• Autoclavable camera head for better infection control

• Integrated NBI for early detection of lesions

• Still image capture for documentation

Patient benefits:

• Minimally invasive surgery with greater precision

• Faster recovery, reduced pain, and smaller scars

• Lower blood loss and fewer post-operative complications

• Shorter hospital stays and quicker return to daily life

2. LMD-X3200MD – Sony medical display

The Sony LMD-X3200MD is a 55-inch, 3D, 4K UHD medical-grade monitor that provides exceptional clarity. It complements the Olympus system by ensuring even minute anatomical details are clearly visible. It is the first of its kind in Mangaluru.

Patient benefits:

• Greater surgical precision

• Improved safety and success rates

• Faster healing and recovery

3. Olympus infrared telescopes

These telescopes enable fluorescence-guided imaging, allowing accurate mapping of blood vessels, bile ducts, and tumour boundaries.

Patient benefits:

• Reduces risk of injury to critical structures

• Enhances complete removal of tumours and lymph nodes

4. Olympus UHI-4 (Ultra High Flow Insufflator)

This unit provides stable and high-speed insufflation to maintain a consistent surgical field during laparoscopic procedures.

Patient benefits:

• Improved visibility for the surgeon

• Reduced surgical time and anaesthesia exposure

• Faster recovery

This major technological addition aligns with the hospital's motto, "Heal and Comfort", and reaffirms its dedication to delivering advanced, safe, and efficient patient care using the latest medical innovations.