Thiruvananthapuram: The Kerala government is set to expand robotic surgery for cancer treatment, initially starting at Thiruvananthapuram Medical College and later extending to all government medical colleges. This initiative follows the successful introduction of robotic surgery at the Regional Cancer Centre (RCC) in Thiruvananthapuram and the Malabar Cancer Center.

As part of the first phase, the government will allocate Rs 30 crore to establish surgical robot facilities at Thiruvananthapuram Medical College. The health department plans to provide similar robotic surgery options in other medical colleges in the coming years.

Robotic surgery, which began at RCC this year, utilises computer-controlled robotic arms to assist in operations. This method allows surgeons to perform procedures with greater precision by controlling the robotic arms while viewing 3D images.

Benefits of robotic surgery: Precision, reduced risks, faster recovery.

One of the key benefits of robotic surgery is that it can be used for procedures in deeper and more complex areas of the body. Patients often experience a shorter hospital stay compared to traditional open surgeries. The smaller incisions made during robotic surgery can also reduce the risk of infection and minimise bleeding during the procedure.