India’s First Robotic Telesurgery for Hernia by Dr. Mahak Bhandari
In a landmark achievement for Indian healthcare, 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 groundbreaking operation marks a new era in surgical innovation, where robot-assisted telesurgery has the potential to transform access, training, and delivery of surgical care across the nation.
What is Robotic Telesurgery?
Robotic telesurgery enables surgeons to perform operations remotely by controlling robotic arms through a specialized console. This technology provides:
- High-definition 3D visualization
- Motion-scaled precision and dexterity
- Real-time responsiveness
- Seamless integration between the surgeon and the on-ground team
Most importantly, it bridges the gap between expertise and accessibility, bringing world-class surgical care to even the most remote corners of India.
IMAS 2025: A Live Masterclass in Surgical Innovation
On the fourth day of IMAS 2025, Dr. Mahak Bhandari executed the historic robotic hernia surgery using the TAPP (Transabdominal Preperitoneal) approach. The procedure was streamed live to participants across the country, making it a unique learning experience.
Key highlights included:
- Set up and calibration of the robotic system
- Remote console operation by Dr. Mahak Bhandari
- Step-by-step explanation of the surgery
- Collaboration with the on-ground surgical team
This immersive session transformed a training hall into a futuristic operating theatre, giving surgeons-in-training a firsthand view of advanced telesurgery in action.
Inside the Surgery: Powered by Indian Innovation
The operation was conducted using the SSI Mantra robotic platform, an indigenous technology developed in India. Known for its intuitive controls and high-precision capabilities, SSI Mantra ensured accuracy throughout the procedure.
From his remote console, Dr. Mahak Bhandari:
- Dissected the hernia sac and surrounding tissues
- Placed a surgical mesh to reinforce the abdominal wall
- Sutured the peritoneum with robotic precision
The live demonstration was not just about technology, but about redefining what is possible in modern surgery.
Why This Surgery is a Turning Point
This historic telesurgery is more than a medical achievement; it represents a paradigm shift in Indian healthcare:
- Expanding Access: Surgeons can perform complex procedures in rural and underserved hospitals.
- Revolutionizing Education: Surgeons in training gain real-time exposure to high-stakes surgeries.
- Scalable Expertise: A single expert can serve multiple centers remotely.
- Indian Innovation: SSI Mantra Demonstrates That Indigenous Technology Can Match Global Standards.
Dr. Mahak Bhandari on the Future of Surgery
" 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
With his expertise in advanced laparoscopic and robotic techniques, Dr. Mahak Bhandari continues to push boundaries in surgical innovation. His vision is shaping a future where every patient has access to world-class care, no matter where they live.
Explore What’s Next
This milestone is just the beginning. With initiatives like IRCAD India and innovations like the SSI Mantra, the future of surgery in India is one where excellence knows no boundaries.
