The robotic surgery programme at Shri Lal Bahadur Shastri Government Medical College and Hospital (SLBSGMCH), Ner Chowk, has achieved 61 successful robot-assisted procedures since its launch, significantly advancing cancer treatment and minimally invasive care in Himachal Pradesh.
Da Vinci Xi System and Training
The hospital installed the advanced Da Vinci Xi robotic surgical system in January 2026 at a cost of nearly Rs 28 crore. Surgeons from the Departments of General Surgery and Obstetrics and Gynaecology underwent extensive training through simulator-based modules, wet-lab exercises and observerships at leading medical institutions in Ghaziabad and Mohali.
Inauguration and Milestones
Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu inaugurated the facility on March 6, with three successful robot-assisted procedures performed on the first day. Routine robotic surgeries began in the Department of General Surgery later that month, while the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology started offering the service in May after specialised training. Currently, robotic-assisted surgeries are conducted five days a week across both departments.
Of the 61 procedures completed, 51 were performed by the Department of General Surgery and 10 by the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology.
Complex Cancer Surgeries
Beyond routine operations such as gallbladder removal and hernia repair, the robotic platform has expanded the hospital’s capability to perform complex cancer surgeries. Surgeons have successfully undertaken advanced procedures, including a right hemicolectomy for a neuroendocrine tumour of the appendix and a low anterior resection with total mesorectal excision for rectal cancer. These achievements have strengthened access to specialised oncological care within the state, reducing the need for patients to travel outside Himachal for advanced treatment.
Women's Health Advancements
The technology has also enhanced women’s healthcare services. The Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology has successfully performed robotic hysterectomies for fibroid uterus and abnormal uterine bleeding, besides carrying out a robotic procedure for an ovarian cyst.
According to Principal Dr Rajesh Kumar, robotic surgery offers several advantages over conventional surgery, including smaller incisions, reduced blood loss, less post-operative pain, shorter hospital stays and faster recovery. These benefits not only improve patient comfort but also contribute to quicker rehabilitation and better clinical outcomes.
Team Effort and Future Outlook
The success of the programme reflects the coordinated efforts of surgeons, anaesthesiologists, operation theatre technicians, nursing officers and support staff. The institution also acknowledged the contributions of former Principal Dr DK Verma, Senior Medical Superintendent Dr Ratti Ram Negi and Additional Director (Administration) Sanjeev Kumar in establishing and strengthening the service.
With robotic-assisted surgery firmly integrated into its healthcare services, SLBSGMCH-Nerchowk is emerging as a centre for advanced minimally invasive and cancer surgery, bringing cutting-edge medical care within easier reach of the people of Himachal Pradesh.
