In a groundbreaking milestone for Indian healthcare and medical innovation, Dr. Mahak Bhandari, Managing Director & Pro-Chancellor of Sri Aurobindo University, performed India’s first-ever robotic telesurgery for hernia on 10th July 2025, during the Intensive Minimal Access Surgery (IMAS) Course 2025 at IRCAD India, Indore.

This revolutionary operation was not only a clinical success but also a powerful demonstration of how robot-assisted telesurgery can transform access, training, and delivery of surgical care across the country.

What is Robotic Telesurgery?

Robotic telesurgery allows a surgeon to perform an operation from a different physical location by remotely controlling robotic arms via an advanced surgical console. The system provides high-definition 3D visualization, motion-scaled instrument control, real-time responsiveness, and unmatched precision.

It bridges the gap between expertise and access, making world-class surgical care available even in the most remote regions.

IMAS 2025: A Live Masterclass in Surgical Innovation

On the fourth day of the Intensive Minimal Access Surgery (IMAS) Course 2025 held at IRCAD India, Dr. Mahak Bhandari executed the first ever robotic hernia surgery in India that was streamed live to participants attending from across the country.

The session offered a real-time, high-value learning experience that included:

• Setup and calibration of the robotic surgical system

• Remote console operation by Dr. Mahak Bhandari

• Step-by-step narration of the hernia repair procedure

• Seamless collaboration between the surgeon and on-ground surgical team

The procedure followed the TAPP (Transabdominal Preperitoneal) approach for inguinal hernia repair, considered one of the most effective and precise techniques in minimally invasive surgery.

Inside The Surgery: How It Was Performed

The surgery was conducted using the SSI Mantra robotic platform, an indigenous innovation developed in India. This system offered exceptional precision, intuitive control, and complete visual clarity throughout the procedure.

From his remote console, Dr. Mahak Bhandari began by carefully dissecting the hernia sac and surrounding tissues. He then guided the robotic instruments to place a surgical mesh over the hernia defect, reinforcing the abdominal wall. The final step involved suturing the peritoneum, all executed with robotic precision under Dr. Mahak Bhandari’s command.

What made this moment extraordinary was not just the technological brilliance, but the fact that it was experienced live by IMAS participants, turning a training hall into a futuristic operating room.

Why This Surgery Marks A Turning Point

This first-of-its-kind robotic telesurgery in India is more than a medical achievement. It is a catalyst for change across four critical dimensions:

• Access to Expertise
  Surgeons can now perform complex procedures in rural or underserved hospitals without needing to travel.

   

• Reimagined Surgical Education
  Surgeons in training can observe high-stakes procedures in real time, gaining insights that textbooks and simulations cannot offer.

   

• Operational Scalability
  A single expert can serve multiple centers from a central location, saving time and resources.

   

• Celebration of Indian Innovation
  By using SSI Mantra, the surgery proves that India’s medical technology is capable of powering global-standard outcomes.

Dr. Mahak Bhandari On The Future

“This telesurgery proves that geography no longer limits surgical excellence. We have combined expertise with innovation to unlock a new chapter in Indian healthcare.”
– Dr. Mahak Bhandari

Dr. Mahak Bhandari continues to be a pioneer in advanced laparoscopic and robotic techniques. His commitment to innovation and education positions him as a leader shaping the future of surgery in India.

Explore What’s Next

This historic surgery is only the beginning. IRCAD India is building a future where excellence in surgery is no longer limited by geography, equipment, or access.

Visit: https://drmahakbhandari.com/
Watch the historic telesurgery: https://youtu.be/Bc7jUsfCkt8