AIIMS Bhubaneswar Pioneers Robotic Surgery and Liver Transplant in Odisha
In a landmark development for healthcare in eastern India, AIIMS Bhubaneswar has become the first government medical institution in Odisha to operationalize a comprehensive robotic surgery programme. Union Health Minister J P Nadda formally launched the Advanced Robotic Surgery System via video link on Monday, marking a significant step forward in integrating cutting-edge medical technologies into public healthcare.
Launch of Advanced Robotic Surgery System
During the virtual inauguration, J P Nadda emphasized the transformative potential of the robotic surgery programme. The system will initially cover specialties such as urology, gynaecology, and paediatric surgery, with plans to expand to other areas. Nadda highlighted that this initiative aims to improve surgical precision, reduce blood loss, shorten hospital stays, promote faster recovery, and minimize the need for patients to travel outside the state for advanced procedures.
The installation of the robotic system reflects a broader vision to democratize access to high-end surgical care, Nadda stated, underscoring the government's commitment to enhancing public healthcare infrastructure with advanced technologies.
Inauguration of Liver Transplant Unit
Alongside the robotic surgery launch, Nadda inaugurated a state-of-the-art liver transplant unit at AIIMS Bhubaneswar. He described this as an important chapter and a major milestone in strengthening advanced tertiary healthcare services in the region. The liver transplant facility is designed to bring advanced treatment for end-stage liver disease within reach of patients in Odisha and eastern India, particularly benefiting economically weaker and disadvantaged individuals by enabling them to undergo transplantation and comprehensive follow-up care without financial hardship.
The institute has established a dedicated liver transplant operation theatre and a highly advanced ICU equipped with modern medical technology. Additionally, a specialty clinic has been set up for structured post-transplant follow-up and continuity of care. According to an official statement from AIIMS Bhubaneswar, two liver transplants have already been performed successfully, with both patients recovering well and leading normal lives.
Impact on Healthcare in Odisha
The commencement of these programmes represents a significant advancement in Odisha's healthcare landscape. Key benefits include:
- Enhanced Surgical Precision: Robotic systems offer improved accuracy in complex procedures.
- Reduced Patient Burden: Minimizes travel for advanced treatments, saving time and costs.
- Economic Accessibility: Provides high-end care to underserved populations without financial strain.
- Improved Recovery Outcomes: Faster healing and shorter hospital stays due to advanced technology.
Nadda also noted that the liver transplant unit advances the noble cause of organ donation, encouraging more awareness and participation in life-saving initiatives. This dual launch at AIIMS Bhubaneswar sets a precedent for other government institutions to adopt similar technologies, fostering a more robust and inclusive healthcare system across India.
