Apollo Kolkata Conducts India’s First Robotic Surgery for Rare Kidney Condition

India: Apollo Cancer Centre (ACC), Kolkata performed India’s first robotic radical nephrectomy on a 66-year-old male patient with a rare congenital condition known as Crossed Fused Ectopic Kidney. This anomaly, reported in fewer than 10 cases globally, involves one kidney crossing the midline and fusing with the opposite kidney, resulting in a complex and abnormal anatomical structure.

Led by Dr. Tarun Jindal, Senior Consultant in Uro-Oncology and Robotic Surgery, the procedure utilized the hospital's advanced robotic surgical system to tackle the intricate challenges posed by the condition. The abnormal vascular and ureteral structures associated with Crossed Fused Ectopic Kidney make traditional open surgeries highly risky and invasive. However, the precision, control, and enhanced 3D visualization provided by robotic technology allowed Dr. Jindal and his team to meticulously navigate the complexities of the anomaly.

The robotic surgical approach ensured the careful dissection of abnormal vasculature and fused kidney tissue, preserving the patient’s functional kidney. This minimally invasive technique not only minimized surgical risks but also significantly reduced recovery time and postoperative complications, marking a remarkable advancement over traditional methods.

“This case highlights the transformative potential of robotic surgery in managing complex urological conditions,” said Dr. Jindal. “The precision and control offered by this technology enable us to address challenging anatomical anomalies with greater confidence, ensuring optimal outcomes for our patients. The patient’s successful recovery underscores the power of advanced surgical innovations.”

The patient, admitted on October 21, 2024, underwent the procedure on October 23 and was discharged just four days later on October 27. Expressing his gratitude, the patient remarked, “I was apprehensive upon learning about my condition, but the expertise and care I received at Apollo Cancer Centre gave me hope. I’m amazed by my quick recovery and deeply thankful to the team.”

Dr. Surinder Singh Bhatia, Director – Medical Services at ACC, emphasized the hospital's commitment to leveraging cutting-edge technology to improve patient care. “This groundbreaking surgery exemplifies our dedication to using advanced techniques to treat even the most complex conditions. We are proud of our team, especially Dr. Jindal, for pushing the boundaries of medical innovation.”

Robot-assisted surgery has revolutionized modern medicine, particularly in Uro-Oncology, by providing unparalleled precision, reduced invasiveness, and quicker recovery. Apollo Cancer Centre remains a leader in adopting such technologies, continually refining their applications to enhance patient outcomes.

This surgery not only demonstrates the hospital’s expertise in robotic-assisted techniques but also serves as a beacon of hope for patients with rare and challenging conditions. As robotic surgery continues to evolve, ACC is committed to expanding its scope, making advanced treatment accessible to a broader patient population.