In a remarkable medical breakthrough, surgeons at Nashik’s KEM Hospital have successfully carried out the world’s first Transoral Robotic Surgery (TORS) on an 89‑year‑old patient, marking a milestone in minimally invasive throat cancer treatment. The pioneering procedure, which involved removing a throat tumor through the mouth using a surgical robot, eliminated the need for any external incisions—dramatically reducing post-operative risk and recovery time for a patient well into their 80s.
TORS, first introduced in the mid‑2000s, leverages a robotic arm equipped with wristed instruments and a 3D high-resolution camera to access hard-to-reach regions in the oropharynx, hypopharynx, and larynx. Traditionally, these areas required extensive open surgery, which posed higher risks, especially for elderly patients. With TORS, surgeons can remove tumors through the mouth, resulting in significantly reduced blood loss, fewer complications, and shorter hospital stays, while preserving vital functions like speech and swallowing.
In this Nashik procedure, the surgical team successfully excised a malignant lesion from the throat without harming adjacent structures. The patient, who previously had avoidable risks from open surgery due to age, now stands as a testament to how advanced robotics may transform surgical care globally, especially among geriatric patients with complex conditions.
Speaking about the achievement, Prof Nagarkar, Chief of Surgical Oncology & Robotic Services and Managing Director – KIMS Manavata Hospitals, HCG Manavata Cancer Centre and Six Sigma, expressed pride that the operation “demonstrates the expanding frontiers of surgical robotics in India” and emphasized its potential to “elevate standards of care—even for patients once deemed too fragile for invasive procedures.”
Experts believe that this successful operation could pave the way for wider adoption of TORS in India, as more institutions invest in robotic platforms such as the da Vinci Surgical System. It also highlights the importance of training surgeons in robotic methods to tackle complex cancers more safely, particularly in regions where access to advanced surgical technology remains limited.
As India continues to enhance its medical infrastructure, this Nashik milestone reflects a broader shift toward cutting-edge, patient-friendly healthcare. With robotic-assisted operations on the rise, even elderly, high-risk patients can anticipate compassionate care with minimized trauma—redefining what is possible in modern surgery.
– Rithvisha Kiran
