Sri Ramachandra Medical Centre (SRMC) in Chennai has become one of the first hospitals in Tamil Nadu to launch the advanced Da Vinci robotic surgical system. The platform enables ultra-precise, minimally invasive procedures with 3D high-definition visualization and wristed instruments, dramatically improving outcomes in urology, gynaecology, thoracic, general surgery, and head & neck oncology.
Glimpse:
SRMC has officially commissioned the Da Vinci Xi robotic system, allowing surgeons to perform complex operations through tiny incisions with enhanced dexterity, tremor filtration, and immersive 3D vision. The hospital has already trained a core team of urologists, gynaecologists, thoracic surgeons, and general surgeons. Initial procedures have focused on prostate cancer, endometrial cancer, lung resections, and colorectal resections, with patients experiencing significantly less pain, minimal blood loss, shorter hospital stays, and quicker return to normal activities.
Sri Ramachandra Medical Centre (SRMC), one of Chennai’s most respected tertiary care institutions, has taken a major leap in surgical innovation by introducing the Da Vinci robotic surgical system making it one of the earliest adopters of this technology in Tamil Nadu.
The Da Vinci Xi platform, considered the gold standard in robotic-assisted surgery worldwide, was formally inaugurated at SRMC in the presence of senior clinicians, hospital leadership, and representatives from Intuitive Surgical. The system features four robotic arms with fully wristed instruments that offer seven degrees of freedom far exceeding the capability of the human hand combined with a surgeon console that provides magnified 3D high-definition vision and precise, tremor-free control.
According to Dr. S. Thanikachalam, Director of Cardiac Sciences and Senior Consultant, and Dr. S. Vijayanand, Head of Surgical Gastroenterology, the hospital has already completed several successful robotic procedures, including radical prostatectomy, hysterectomy for endometrial cancer, lobectomy for early-stage lung cancer, and low anterior resection for rectal cancer.
Dr. Preetam Arthur, Head of Gynaecological Oncology, noted that robotic assistance has allowed nerve-sparing techniques in gynaecological cancers, significantly reducing post-operative complications such as urinary incontinence and sexual dysfunction while maintaining oncologic safety.
Dr. Julius Xavier Scott, Head of Paediatric Surgery, highlighted that the system is particularly valuable in paediatric and adolescent cases where space constraints and delicate anatomy demand extreme precision.
Hospital sources confirmed that over 20 surgeons across multiple specialties have already undergone intensive training and certification on the Da Vinci platform. SRMC has also invested in dedicated robotic operation theatres equipped with advanced anaesthesia workstations and integrated 3D imaging.
The introduction of robotic surgery at SRMC is expected to reduce average hospital stay by 30–50% for many procedures, lower infection rates, minimize blood transfusions, and improve cosmetic outcomes benefits that are especially meaningful for working-age patients and young adults.
SRMC leadership stated that the hospital plans to gradually expand robotic surgery to thoracic, head & neck, bariatric, and hepatobiliary procedures in the coming months. They also intend to offer robotic-assisted surgeries under various insurance schemes and government programs to make the technology more accessible.
This development further cements Chennai’s growing reputation as a centre of excellence for advanced surgical care in South India, joining a select group of hospitals now offering robotic surgery to patients in Tamil Nadu.
“The Da Vinci system is not just a tool it is a force multiplier that allows our surgeons to achieve what was previously impossible with the same level of precision and safety.”
By
HB Team
