Robotic Cardiac Surgery in Hyderabad

Overview

Robotic Heart Surgery in Hyderabad is a minimally invasive option for selected cardiac procedures, using advanced robotic technology under the direct control of a cardiac surgeon. This surgical procedure is not performed by the robot autonomously; rather, the surgeon controls the instruments' movements. This technique may provide better three-dimensional vision and greater instrument movement, making some heart operations possible through incisions smaller than those used in open-heart surgery. 

Apollo Hospitals has extensive expertise in cardiac procedures in Hyderabad and was the first hospital in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana to perform robotic cardiac surgery. 

What is Robotic Assisted Heart Surgery?

Robotic heart surgery, also known as robot-assisted heart surgery in Hyderabad, is a minimally invasive approach in which a cardiac surgeon uses a robotic surgical system to perform selected heart procedures.

During the procedure, specialised instruments and a camera are inserted through small incisions. The surgeon controls the instruments from a console, with enhanced magnification and three-dimensional visualisation of the surgical area. The system allows controlled movements of the instruments within the surgical field.

An important point is that the robot does not make decisions or perform the operation on its own. Every surgical movement is controlled by the surgeon. Robotic technology is used to support visualisation and instrument control during appropriate procedures.

Compared with some conventional open approaches, robotic surgery may allow selected cardiac procedures to be performed through smaller incisions. It is therefore considered part of minimally invasive robotic heart surgery, although the exact approach depends on the procedure and the individual patient's anatomy.

How Does Robotic Heart Surgery Work?

At Apollo Hospitals, the process of Robotic-assisted Heart Surgery in Hyderabad generally involves the following stages:

1. Cardiac Evaluation

The cardiac team will evaluate the symptoms, case history, previous treatments, medications, and the patient's overall condition. The first evaluation will help determine whether surgery is necessary.

2. Imaging and Diagnostic Assessment

Different tests are ordered based on the medical problem being assessed. The tests include an echocardiogram, an electrocardiogram, a cardiac CT scan or MRI, and coronary angiography, among others, depending on the situation.

3. Surgical Planning

When surgery is needed, the test results are analysed by cardiologists, and the best course of action is chosen for the patient, whether robotic heart surgery or another form of surgery.

4. Robotic-Assisted Procedure

In Robotic-Assisted Cardiac Surgery, the surgeon operates the robotic equipment from the control station. The robotic equipment is introduced into the body via the access points and manipulated by the surgeon for the necessary procedure.

5. Post-Operative Monitoring

The patient is closely monitored after the operation. This includes monitoring of functions such as heart function, respiration, circulation, wound healing, and many others.

6. Recovery and Rehabilitation

Once medically appropriate, mobilisation and other recovery measures are introduced. Follow-up, medication management and cardiac rehabilitation may form part of the recovery plan.

What Heart Conditions Can Be Treated With Robotic Surgery?

Robotic surgery is not suitable for every heart condition. It may be considered when the required procedure can be safely performed using robotic or minimally invasive access.

Robotic Mitral Valve Surgery

Selected patients with mitral valve disease may be considered for robotic-assisted mitral valve surgery. Depending on the valve problem, treatment may involve repair or replacement. Suitability depends on valve anatomy, disease severity, heart function and other clinical factors.

Robotic Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery

Some selected patients who require coronary artery bypass surgery can undergo minimally invasive or Robot-Assisted Cardiac Surgery. But this does not mean that all patients who require a CABG can undergo robotic surgery. This is because the number of blockages, the anatomy of the coronary arteries and any prior surgeries all affect the procedure.

Robotic Atrial Septal Defect (ASD) Repair

Some patients with an atrial septal defect may be candidates for minimally invasive or robotic-assisted repair. The decision depends on the type and location of the defect, the patient's anatomy and other clinical considerations.

Other Selected Cardiac Procedures

Depending on the diagnosis and surgical assessment, robotic techniques may be considered for selected valve procedures, coronary procedures, congenital heart defects and other cardiac operations. Apollo's Hyderabad cardiac services currently list robotic heart surgery alongside CABG, valve surgery and minimally invasive cardiac surgery.

Who May Be a Candidate for Robotic Heart Surgery?

Not every patient requiring cardiac surgery is a candidate for a robotic approach. Robotic-Assisted Cardiac Surgery is undertaken only after careful assessment to confirm that the operation can be conducted safely and properly via a minimally invasive route.

Factors that may influence suitability include:

• Type and severity of the heart condition

• Heart and blood-vessel anatomy

• Imaging findings

• Location and extent of coronary or valve disease

• Previous cardiac or chest surgery

• Heart function

• Age and associated medical conditions

• Overall fitness for surgery

• Complexity of the required procedure

• Whether adequate surgical access can be achieved robotically

Robotic heart surgery is not suitable for every patient. The cardiac surgical team determines the most appropriate approach after detailed evaluation.

Benefits of Robotic Heart Surgery

For appropriately selected patients, Minimally Invasive Robotic Heart Surgery may offer advantages over certain conventional surgical approaches.

These may include:

• Smaller surgical incisions

• Reduced surgical access in selected procedures

• Enhanced three-dimensional visualisation

• Precise and controlled instrument movement

• Potentially less post-operative discomfort in some patients

• Earlier mobilisation in appropriate cases

• Potentially shorter hospitalisation for selected procedures

• Smaller scars compared with some open approaches

• Potentially earlier return to routine activities

These are potential benefits rather than guarantees. Recovery varies according to the procedure, the patient's health, the complexity of the condition and post-operative progress.

Robotic Heart Surgery vs Open Heart Surgery

Robotic Heart Surgery vs Open Heart Surgery

The decision about whether robotic, minimally invasive, or conventional surgery is preferred depends on the specific diagnosis, the individual’s anatomy, and the need for the procedure. For certain individuals, conventional surgery would be a more suitable option.

Why Choose Apollo Hospitals for Robotic Heart Surgery in Hyderabad?

Apollo's Cardiac Surgery Expertise

Apollo Heart Institute in Hyderabad has more than 35 years of cardiac experience and reports more than 1.5 lakh cardiac procedures, including more than 25,000 coronary bypass surgeries. Apollo also reports more than 1,300 minimally invasive cardiac surgery procedures.

Apollo's Hyderabad cardiac programme was the first in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana to perform robot-assisted cardiac surgery. Its current cardiac services include robotic heart surgery, minimally invasive cardiac surgery, CABG and heart valve surgery.

Multidisciplinary Cardiac Care

Complex cardiac conditions may require coordinated input from cardiologists, cardiac surgeons, cardiac anaesthetists, intensivists, imaging specialists, nurses and rehabilitation professionals.

Treatment is planned after reviewing the patient's clinical findings and diagnostic results. Depending on the condition, management may include medication, interventional treatment, minimally invasive surgery or conventional cardiac surgery.

Advanced Cardiac Infrastructure

Apollo's Hyderabad cardiac facilities provide diagnostic, interventional, surgical, and critical care services. Our Financial District centre currently lists Minimally Invasive and Robotic Heart Surgery among its cardiac procedures, while Apollo Health City, Jubilee Hills, also lists robotic heart surgery as part of its cardiac services.

Robotic Heart Surgery at Apollo Hospitals, Hyderabad

Apollo Hospitals Hyderabad provides cardiac care through the Apollo Heart Institute / Cardiac Sciences. Apollo Health City, Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad, Telangana, offers Robotic Heart Surgery in Hyderabad along with minimally invasive cardiac surgery, CABG and heart valve surgery. It was the first hospital in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana to perform robot-assisted cardiac surgery.

Apollo Hospitals Financial District Hyderabad also provides minimally invasive and robotic heart surgery as part of its Cardiac Sciences services. The specific location and surgical approach depend on the procedure required and the patient's clinical assessment.

Recovery After Robotic Heart Surgery

Recovery following robotic heart surgery differs from one patient to another. The type of surgery performed, general health status, and complications of the cardiac issue will be determining factors.

Post-Operative Monitoring

Post-surgical care is crucial and involves close monitoring of vital signs, including cardiac health, respiratory rate, circulation, wound healing, and more.

Mobilisation

When clinically appropriate, gradual mobility is initiated, taking into account the patient's condition and the treating team's recommendations.

Hospital Stay

Duration of the hospital stay depends on the surgery and recovery process. Apollo notes that hospital admission varies depending on the cardiac surgical procedure performed.

Follow-Up and Rehabilitation

After discharge, there will be follow-up sessions to assess the patient's recovery, evaluate medications, and provide advice on activities and lifestyle. Cardiac rehabilitation may include supervised exercise, dietary advice, medication education and lifestyle guidance.

 

Take the Next Step Towards Advanced Cardiac Care

If your doctor recommends heart surgery or you wish to explore other minimally invasive treatment options, visit the Heart Surgery Team at Apollo Hospitals, Hyderabad.

After conducting a thorough assessment of your general health and ordering appropriate tests, the team will brief you on the treatment options and whether Robotic Cardiac Surgery in Hyderabad is a suitable choice for you.

Book an Appointment today to discuss your heart ailment and treatment options.