Bangladesh conducts first-ever robotic surgeries at United Healthcare

Bangladesh has successfully performed its first-ever robotic surgeries at United Healthcare, located at United City on Madani Avenue in Dhaka.

The hospital authorities said the use of AI-powered robotic surgical technology has opened new possibilities for advanced healthcare services in the country.

Two robotic surgeries were performed on Monday. Professor Dr Rafiqus Saleheen performed a robotic cholecystectomy on a 34-year-old man suffering from gallstones. Meanwhile, Professor Dr Shamsad Jahan (Shelly) performed a robotic hysterectomy on a 45-year-old woman suffering from excessive uterine bleeding.

The two procedures were carried out by a multidisciplinary medical team of specialists with the assistance of the state-of-the-art MedBot Toumai Endoscopic Surgical Robot.

Robotic surgery allows doctors to obtain a clear, three-dimensional (3D) view of the inside of the body. The robotic arms can rotate up to 360 degrees, enabling surgeons to operate with greater precision in narrow and complex areas of the body.

The technology can reduce the need for large incisions, blood loss and damage to surrounding tissues, while also helping reduce postoperative pain and enabling patients to recover more quickly.

Professor Dr Rafiqus Saleheen said robotic surgery represents one of the most advanced technologies in modern medicine.

The extensive range of movement of robotic arms makes it possible to perform procedures more precisely even in complex areas of the body. It also helps protect vital blood vessels and organs while allowing treatment through smaller incisions and reducing blood loss.

Professor Dr Shamsad Jahan said plans are underway to expand robotic surgery services soon to cardiac surgery, neurosurgery, urology, general surgery, gynaecology and thoracic surgery.

She said the goal is to provide world-class treatment within Bangladesh to patients who currently have to travel abroad for advanced medical care.

This would not only reduce the need for overseas treatment but also help reduce the expenditure of foreign currency.

United Healthcare authorities said they are continuing to invest in and introduce modern technologies alongside advanced and specialised medical services, including emergency and critical care, advanced diagnostics and various specialised treatments.

They said their goal is to improve patient safety and the quality of healthcare while reducing Bangladesh’s dependence on overseas treatment and ensuring access to advanced medical care within the country.