Demonstrating the growing potential of telesurgery in delivering expert care across borders, a senior surgeon at the Asian Institute of Nephrology and Urology (AINU) successfully performed a tele-robotic ureteric reimplantation on a patient in Hyderabad, India, while operating remotely from Wuhan, China.
The complex urological surgery was carried out using an advanced robotic surgical system, with coordinated support from teams of urosurgeons at both AINU Hospital in Hyderabad and Tongji Hospital in China.
Dr. Syed Md. Ghouse, Director of Robotic and Minimal Access Urological Surgery at AINU, who led the procedure, described the surgery as a major step forward in the evolution of surgical care.
“This milestone reflects how technology is redefining the boundaries of surgical care. With robotic platforms and robust connectivity, we can now deliver highly specialized procedures across continents with the same precision as being physically present. This is a significant step towards equitable access to advanced cancer care,” he said.
According to the AINU surgical team, the 57-year-old patient had been suffering from recurrent ureteric obstruction caused by a lower ureteric stricture. Although stenting initially provided temporary relief, her symptoms returned, and further evaluation confirmed a persistent blockage.
The surgical team performed an anti-reflux ureteric reimplantation to restore normal urine flow. The surgery was executed with real-time precision using advanced robotic technology with less than 100 milliseconds of latency.
The operation was conducted after obtaining patient consent and the necessary regulatory approvals, they said.
AINU said the achievement demonstrates the growing potential of cross-border robotic surgery in expanding access to specialized care, particularly for patients who may otherwise face delays or logistical challenges in receiving timely treatment.
Commenting on the future of robotic surgery, Dr. Mallikarjuna C, Managing Director, Chief Consultant Urologist and Robotic Surgeon at AINU Banjara Hills, highlighted the importance of tele-proctoring.
Dr. Mallikarjuna said, “Robotic surgery has transformed complex procedures by enhancing precision and shortening the learning curve for surgeons. While access to technology is improving, the real challenge lies in building skilled expertise. With advancements in 5G, tele-proctoring is emerging as the future, enabling experienced surgeons to guide teams remotely during critical steps. This collaborative model ensures high-quality care reaches patients closer to home, without replacing the essential role of the on-ground surgical team.”
This milestone also highlights how cutting-edge technology can bridge critical gaps in access to specialized surgical care, particularly in remote or underserved regions.
Dr. Syed Md. Ghouse and the AINU urosurgeon team.
