Maharastra Launches its First Made-in-India Surgical Robot

The SSI Mantra, India’s first made-in-India surgical robot, has been installed at Noble Hospital and Research Centre in Pune, Maharashtra. This advancement in medical technology recently gained approval from the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO). The installation ceremony was attended by Marathi actor Prasad Oak, marking a milestone in India’s healthcare landscape.

Features of SSI Mantra

The SSI Mantra boasts five robotic arms and a 3D HD headset for surgeons, including a vision cart that provides 3D 4K imaging. These features enhance precision and control during surgical procedures, ensuring better outcomes for patients.

Applications in Surgery

The robotic system will facilitate various life-saving surgeries. It will be employed in general surgery, cardiac and thoracic operations, urology, gynecology, and complex procedures. The first surgery performed using the robot was a robotic right extended hemicolectomy on a colon cancer patient.

Advantages of Robotic Surgery

Robotic surgery offers numerous benefits compared to traditional methods. It involves small, fingertip-sized incisions, resulting in less invasiveness. Patients experience quicker recovery times, reduced pain, and faster return to normal activities.

Surgeons control the robotic arms from a console equipped with a 3D monitor. The system features a safety camera to ensure the surgeon’s presence during operations. This setup allows for precise manipulation of instruments within the surgical field.

Development and Expansion

The SSI Mantra was developed in 2017 by Dr. Sudhir Srivastava. Its modular design includes detachable arms suitable for various surgeries. The first installation occurred at the Rajiv Gandhi Cancer Institute in New Delhi, followed by installations in Hyderabad and Raipur.

Telesurgery and Teleproctoring

The SSI Mantra is the first surgical robot in India to receive CDSCO approval for Telesurgery and Teleproctoring. This technology enables remote surgeries and training, expanding access to surgical expertise in remote areas.

The SSI Mantra has also been introduced in Nepal, specifically at B&B Hospital in Lalitpur, showcasing its potential beyond Indian borders.

GKToday Notes:

1. SSI Mantra: The SSI Mantra is India’s first made-in-India surgical robot. It was developed in 2017 and installed in multiple hospitals, enhancing surgical precision and capabilities.
2. CDSCO: The Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation is India’s regulatory authority for drugs and medical devices. It ensures safety and efficacy, granting approvals for innovations like the SSI Mantra.
3. Telesurgery: Telesurgery allows surgeons to perform operations remotely. This technology facilitates training and access to surgical expertise in remote locations, revolutionising healthcare delivery.

Month: Current Affairs - December, 2024

Category: Science & Technology Current Affairs