Pics: Thejaswi U Poojary
Media Release
Udupi, Oct 14: Kasturba Hospital, in a landmark moment for healthcare in Udupi district, launched its advanced robotic surgery programme, marking a transformative chapter in the region. The path-breaking technology was unveiled by Saina Nehwal, Olympic badminton champion and chief guest for the event.
Aimed at enhancing precision and improving outcomes in surgical oncology, general surgery, GI surgery, OBG, urology, and joint replacement procedures, this advanced technology is set to revolutionize patient care. With this launch, Kasturba Hospital became the first healthcare institution in Udupi district to offer robotic-assisted surgeries.
The launch ceremony, presided over by Dr H S Ballal, pro-chancellor of MAHE, witnessed the presence of distinguished guests including Dr Sudhakar Kantipudi, chief operating officer, Manipal cluster; Dr Avinash Shetty, medical superintendent, Kasturba Hospital, Manipal; and Saghir Siddiqui, regional chief officer of Manipal Hospitals, Mangaluru.
Dr Sudhakar Kantipudi, chief operating officer, Manipal cluster, delivered the welcome address and briefed the gathering on robotic surgery at Kasturba Hospital. An overview of robotics in cancer surgery was presented by Dr Naveena Kumar A N, professor and head, department of surgical oncology, KMC and KH, MAHE, Manipal. Robotics in total joint and knee replacement was presented by Dr Sharath K Rao, pro vice-chancellor (health sciences), MAHE, Manipal. Dr H S Ballal, pro-chancellor, MAHE, delivered the presidential address. The programme featured live demonstrations and detailed presentations on the applications of robotics in cancer surgery and total joint and knee replacement procedures.
Speaking at the inauguration, Saina Nehwal said, “As an athlete, I understand the critical importance of precision, recovery, and getting back to peak performance. The launch of this robotic surgery programme at Kasturba Hospital, Manipal, is a game-changer for the region. Just as technology has transformed sports training and performance, it is now revolutionizing healthcare. This facility brings world-class surgical care to people’s doorsteps, ensuring they receive quality treatment. I am honoured to be part of this momentous occasion that will touch countless lives. The Manipal campus is truly beautiful. As athletes, we dislike injuries, but overcoming them is part of what makes us stronger. Recovering after surgery can take weeks, so it’s always better to stay fit and avoid reaching that point. Keep your body active through regular exercise and build strength by lifting weights. Even for those with busy 9-to-5 jobs, it’s important to take some time to care for your physical health.”
The introduction of robotic-assisted surgery marks a paradigm shift in surgical care, offering unprecedented advantages across multiple medical specialties. The robotic surgery programme will create a profound impact in orthopaedics and other surgical specialties where precision is critical. In orthopaedic surgery, robotic assistance revolutionizes total joint and knee replacement procedures through computer-aided planning that ensures optimal implant positioning, personalized surgical approaches based on each patient’s unique anatomy, and improved implant longevity and joint function.
In surgical oncology, robotic technology enables surgeons to perform complex cancer resections with greater accuracy, ensuring complete tumour removal while preserving healthy tissue.
Dr Sudhakar Kantipudi, chief operating officer, Manipal cluster, emphasized the strategic significance and said, “The launch of our robotic surgery programme represents a strategic commitment to the future of healthcare delivery in coastal Karnataka. By bringing robotic surgery to Udupi district, we are reducing the burden on patients and families who previously had to travel to metro cities for such procedures. This cutting-edge technology combines the expertise of skilled surgeons with the precision of advanced robotics, resulting in significantly improved patient outcomes. This programme will strengthen our clinical capabilities, reinforce our position as a leading healthcare provider, and create a sustainable model for technology-driven, patient-centric care.”
Dr H S Ballal, pro-chancellor, MAHE, addressed the gathering and said, “Today marks a proud moment for the MAHE and Kasturba Hospital family. The introduction of comprehensive robotic surgery programmes for the people of Udupi district is not just a technological upgrade; it is a testament to our unwavering commitment to bringing world-class healthcare to every community we serve. This programme embodies MAHE’s mission to combine clinical excellence with compassionate care, and I am confident it will set new benchmarks in regional healthcare delivery. We are not just launching a programme; we are transforming lives and writing a new chapter in accessible, advanced healthcare.”
The event concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by Dr Avinash Shetty, medical superintendent, Kasturba Hospital, Manipal.