How the adoption of robotics in healthcare is advancing medical treatment

India has revolutionised its healthcare system. It is now a leading provider of vaccines and drugs, worldwide. Some of the best medical talent is sourced from India, and it is the most attractive medical tourism destination in the world.

India has been at the forefront of innovation for new-age technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML), moving toward total automation, which has significantly improved healthcare outcomes in terms of efficiency, accuracy, and precision. Due to better health outcomes, India’s healthcare ecosystem can be scaled, which makes it more affordable, resulting in accessible healthcare for people.

Robotic technology for orthopaedic solutions
Recently, the CK Birla Hospital in Delhi, launched a fully active robotic system for minimally-invasive knee replacement surgery. The advanced system utilizes robotics to assist surgeons in complex procedures. Its advanced 3D visualisation and intuitive control systems offer high level of precision and control. With the help of this innovative technology, surgical procedures can be performed with an enhanced degree of accuracy, thus improving patient outcomes. In terms of knee replacement surgery outcomes, robotics can result in faster recovery time while also assuring greater implant longevity and giving the knee a more natural feel.

An advanced computer program (on a console) transmits precise, real-time information to a surgeon-held device that provides robotic help. Every procedure has a custom strategy based on the distinctive anatomy of each patient. Using a special pencil tool, the surgeon first charts the distinctive shape of the arthritic knee. After creating a 3D mock-up of the natural knee, the computer attempts to custom fit and size implants on it (replacement components). Following the surgeon’s approval of the plan, the resurfacing procedure is carried out using a specialized robotic-assisted handpiece that operates within the pre-established parameters to reduce tissue damage and eradicate human error. The amount of tissue damage decreases as accuracy and precision increases.

Robotic-assisted surgery – An advancement in medical treatment
Emerging economies like India have many orthopedic patients who could benefit from advanced minimally invasive procedures. Robotic-assisted surgery (RAS) is one such minimally invasive surgical innovation catalyzing a paradigm shift in the approach to minimally invasive surgical procedures owing to its clinical benefits, and being one of the most sophisticated precision tools. RAS research has aimed to provide better patient outcomes and overall experience at the most optimal cost of treatment.

Furthermore, advanced technologies like the RAS system can also help address the healthcare burden, with the potential of faster patient recovery, lesser chances of infection and shorter hospital stay, allowing for optimized utilization of critical resources, such as operation theaters and hospital beds, along with the surgeon’s ability to perform more number of procedures. Also, the industry is witnessing a wider interest in adoption of the technology among surgeons across the nation due to its ability to standardize surgical techniques and usher in a new era of growth in minimally invasive care.

Moreover, RAS surgeries offer lower overall costs than open surgery, including pre- and post-operative care, with better results. This represents a significant gain in value for patients. With remarkable research being done in the fields of medical and surgical technology over the past few decades, the emphasis of treatment is now on patient centricity and better patient outcomes. Additionally, using AI and ML in surgery will drive greater efficiency, value, and potentially reduce surgical variability, helping unlock enhanced experiences and opportunities for providers and patients.