Mumbai's Inaugural Robotic-Assisted RABIT Procedure Revolutionizes Life for 60-Year-Old Farmer

Mumbai: A 60-year-old female farmer from Varnanagar, Kolhapur, underwent the first Robotic-assisted Breast-axillo Insufflation Thyroidectomy (RABIT) in Mumbai history with great success, marking a significant milestone for the hospital. The patient is no longer experiencing any symptoms as a result of this innovative operation, which represents a major advancement in thyroid surgery.

Mrs. Gokula Patil, a 60-year-old farmer from Kolhapur district, Varnanagar was visiting her son in Mumbai when she presented with a significant swelling on the left side of her neck at Gleneagles Hospitals, Parel, Mumbai. Diagnosed four years ago with benign thyroid swelling, she had been managing her condition conservatively. However, over the last few years, the swelling has progressively increased in size.

Upon further evaluation using sonography and a CT scan, multiple nodules were discovered on her left thyroid gland, with a smaller nodule on the right side. A biopsy confirmed the benign nature of these nodules. Mrs. Patil was then referred to endocrinologist Dr. Sneha Kothari for further assessment. Given the nodules' growth, a thyroidectomy was deemed necessary.

Under the expertise of Dr. Jignesh Gandhi Sr Consultant Robotic & Laparoscopic surgeon, assisted by the Da Vinci robotic system, Mrs. Patil underwent the RABIT procedure. This technique revolutionizes thyroid surgery by offering a minimally invasive alternative to traditional methods. The robotic-assisted method enhances surgical accuracy and reduces trauma, leading to smaller incisions and minimal scarring. For patients, it translates to quicker recovery, less postoperative pain, and a significantly lower risk of complications. For doctors, the robotic system provides enhanced visualization and dexterity, allowing for meticulous dissection and preservation of vital structures.

Dr. Jignesh Gandhi, Senior Laparoscopic and Robotic Surgeon elaborated on the procedure: “Traditional open surgery often results in large visible scars and longer recovery times. The RABIT technique involves small 8 mm incisions in hidden areas like the axilla and along the areolar regions, avoiding visible neck scars and preserving muscle integrity. This results in minimal post-operative pain and faster healing. The entire procedure lasts 1-2 hours with minimal blood loss, ensuring the preservation of critical structures like the parathyroid glands and the recurrent laryngeal nerve.”

Expressing her gratitude, Mrs. Patil said, “I am deeply thankful to Dr. Jignesh Gandhi and his team for this life-changing procedure. After years of discomfort, I am now symptom-free and able to resume my daily activities without any visible scars or pain.”

Dr. Vivek Talaulikar, COO of Gleneagles Hospitals, Mumbai emphasized the institution's commitment to advanced healthcare: “At Gleneagles Hospitals, we are dedicated to revolutionizing patient care with the latest technological advancements. The successful implementation of the RABIT technique is a testament to our commitment to providing cutting-edge treatments that enhance patient outcomes and quality of life. Robotic procedures like RABIT exemplify our approach, offering precision, safety, and improved recovery times for patients. By integrating such advanced technologies, we aim to set new benchmarks in healthcare and ensure our patients receive the best possible care.”

This pioneering procedure not only highlights the exceptional skills of the medical team at Gleneagles Hospital but also underscores the hospital’s dedication to adopting advanced technologies for superior patient care.