Mumbai’s KEM Hospital has made history by successfully completing 101 robotic surgeries in just five months, focusing on knee implant surgeries. The introduction of robots for these surgeries has proven to be a game-changer, with all patients being discharged quickly after successful procedures. This milestone achievement was made possible through the efforts of Hospital founder Dr. Sangeeta Rawat and Head of Orthopedics Dr. Mohan Desai, who secured a robot for the orthopedic department using Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funds.
The journey to incorporating robotic surgery at KEM Hospital began in 2016 when a proposal was submitted to the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) Administration. However, due to the pandemic, progress was halted until the recent successful implementation. With this development, KEM Hospital has become the first government hospital in the country to offer robotic surgery, marking a significant advancement in the medical field.
The first robotic knee implant surgery took place in March 2024, setting the stage for a series of successful procedures. Initially, the department conducted three to four surgeries per week, but soon ramped up to an impressive eight surgeries weekly. Despite the complexity and cost associated with robotic surgery, these procedures are offered free of charge to patients under the Mahatma Phule Jan Arogya Yojana and Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana.
Dr. Mohan Desai, the Medical Superintendent, emphasized that in addition to benefiting patients, the orthopedic department is also providing educational opportunities for college students interested in the field. The success of these surgeries not only highlights the hospital’s commitment to innovation and patient care but also serves as a valuable learning experience for future healthcare professionals.
As the medical community continues to embrace technological advancements, the achievements of KEM Hospital in robotic surgery set a new standard for healthcare delivery in the country. With a focus on precision, efficiency, and patient outcomes, these robotic surgeries represent a significant step forward in the field of orthopedics. The team at KEM Hospital is dedicated to furthering their expertise in robotic surgery and expanding access to this cutting-edge technology for the benefit of their patients and the community at large.
