JPMC marks 300 successful robotic surgeries in one year

KARACHI: More than 300 surgeries have been successfully performed using advanced robotic technology at Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre (JPMC) from October 4, 2023, to October 4, 2024.

JPMC spokesperson Jahangir Durrani stated that during the first year of robotic surgery at the hospital, over 300 operations were conducted in various specialties, including gynecology, urology, and general surgery.

Prof. Shahid Rasool, Executive Director of JPMC, highlighted that the robotic surgery program was launched on October 4, 2023, and has since enabled procedures in departments such as urology, general surgery, and gynecology. Notable surgeries include sleeve gastrectomy, colon cancer surgery, and hernia repairs. The robotic technology has resulted in quicker patient recovery and fewer complications, with no reported deaths during this period.

Robotic surgery offers key benefits, such as smaller incisions, reduced blood loss, and faster recovery times. Unlike the human wrist, which can rotate 180 degrees, the robotic system allows for a full 360-degree rotation, enhancing precision during surgeries.

To support the adoption of this technology, international experts conducted workshops at JPMC to train local doctors, and some staff members were sent to Sharjah for additional training.

However, challenges remain, particularly a shortage of medical staff at JPMC. In the hospital's 28-bed surgical ICU, only 8 beds are operational due to a lack of anesthetic technicians for the remaining 20 beds.