Cardiac diseases are becoming one of the fastest-growing healthcare problems globally and in India. In fact, cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are the leading cause of death and disability in India. According to a recent study published in The Lancet, this group of diseases is marked by a greater risk, earlier onset, higher fatality rates, and increased premature deaths among Indians.

Experts opine that advanced and timely treatment interventions using the latest technologies are essential to deal with this growing cardiovascular disease burden in India. Speaking at STAR Cardiac Connect 2024, a two-day symposium focused on exploring the current scope and future trends in Minimally Invasive Cardiac Surgery (MICS) and Robotic Cardiac Surgery in Hyderabad, many global experts highlighted the role of fourth-generation robotic-assisted surgery systems in transforming cardiac care by empowering surgeons to perform complex procedures with minimal invasiveness for significantly better patient outcomes.

While speaking at the event, a renowned robotic cardiac surgeon, Prof. M.D. Cem Alhan, Professor, Acıbadem University, Istanbul, Turkey, said, “The need for enhanced adoption of robotic-assisted surgery technology in cardiology is becoming increasingly pertinent in India as the country faces a rising burden of cardiovascular diseases. With India being home to over a billion people and a growing prevalence of heart conditions, robotic technology offers a transformative solution to address the complexities of cardiac care.”

“Robotic technology is significantly revolutionizing cardiac surgery across the globe, enhancing both precision and outcomes. As a surgeon who has performed many robotic cardiac surgeries using da Vinci system, I have witnessed firsthand how this technology transforms the way we approach complex procedures. Previously, surgeons could only perform certain cardiac surgeries through traditional methods, which necessitated a lengthy incision down the center of the chest by cutting through the breastbone and opening the ribcage to access the heart. This surgical approach can significantly increase the pain, cause excessive blood loss, scarring, increase the risk of complications like infections, and result in prolonged recovery periods. However, with advanced robotic technologies like the Da Vinci, surgeons can operate through smaller incisions, providing access to hard-to-reach areas without the need to cut through the ribs or sternum. The result is reduced trauma to the surrounding tissues and minimal scarring, leading to less postoperative pain, and a quicker recovery. This is why this technology has been welcomed with open arms all over the world, among the surgeon community,” Prof. M.D. Cem Alhan added.

Dr. Gopichand Mannam, Sr. Consultant & HOD, Cardiothoracic Surgery, Star Hospitals, Hyderabad, said, “We are glad to collaborate with the global technology leaders of robotic-assisted surgery, Intuitive to spread awareness about the benefits of robotic technology in cardiac surgeries. To democratize this technology in India, there is a pressing need to sensitize healthcare professionals and patients about this modality through industry partnerships. We hope that this initiative will help enhance the adoption of robotic-assisted surgery in cardiology, and eventually provide better clinical outcomes to the patients. Enhanced adoption of such advanced technologies will also help position India as a leader in cutting-edge medical care, offering a model for other developing nations to follow.”

The STAR Cardiac Connect 2024 event featured several key highlights, including live demonstrations of Robotic Cardiac Surgery and Minimally Invasive Cardiac Surgery (MICS) procedures. Attendees participated in hands-on wetlabs for endoscopy and cardiac surgery, offering valuable practical experience. The event also provided interactive sessions with an advanced robotic system, allowing participants to engage directly with cutting-edge technology. Additionally, in-box videos showcased real-world examples of MICS and robotic surgeries, further enriching the learning experience for all attendees.