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Manipal, October 14, 2025: Kasturba Hospital, today in a landmark moment for healthcare in Udupi district launched its advanced Robotic Surgery Program thus marking a transformative chapter in the region. The path breaking technology was unveiled by Ms. Saina Nehwal, Olympic Badminton Champion and the chief guest for the event. Aimed at enhancing precision and improving outcomes in surgical oncology, general surgery, GI surgery, OBG, Urology and joint replacement procedures, this advanced technology is set to revolutionize patient care. With this launch, Kasturba Hospital became the first healthcare institution in Udupi district to offer robotic-assisted surgeries.

The launch ceremony presided over by Dr. H.S. Ballal, Pro-Chancellor of MAHE, witnessed the presence of distinguished guests including Dr. Sudhakar Kantipudi, Chief Operating Officer, Manipal Cluster; Dr. Avinash Shetty, Medical Superintendent, Kasturba Hospital, Manipal; and Mr. Saghir Siddiqui, Regional Chief Officer of Manipal Hospitals Mangalore.

Dr. Sudhakar Kantipudi, Chief Operating Officer, Manipal Cluster delivered welcome address & brief note on robotic surgery at Kasturba Hospital. Overview of Robotics in Cancer Surgery was presented by Dr. Naveena Kumar A N Professor & Head, Department of Surgical Oncology, KMC & KH, MAHE, Manipal. Robotics in Total Joint and Knee Replacement – Dr. Sharath K Rao (Pro Vice-Chancellor, Health Sciences, MAHE, Manipal).  Dr. H.S Ballal, Pro Chancellor of MAHE, Manipal gave the presidential address. The program featured live demonstrations and detailed presentations on the applications of robotics in cancer surgery and total joint and knee replacement procedures.

Speaking at the inauguration with gratitude, Ms. Saina Nehwal said, "As an athlete, I understand the critical importance of precision, recovery, and getting back to peak performance. The launch of this Robotics Surgery Program at Kasturba Hospital Manipal is a game-changer for the region. Just as technology has transformed sports training and performance, it is now revolutionizing healthcare. This facility brings world-class surgical care to people’s doorsteps, ensuring they receive quality treatment.  I am honored to be part of this momentous occasion that will touch countless lives."

The introduction of robotic-assisted surgery marks a paradigm shift in surgical care, offering unprecedented advantages across multiple medical specialties. The Robotics Surgery Program will create a profound impact in orthopedics and other surgical specialties, where precision is critical. In orthopedic surgery, robotic assistance revolutionizes total joint and knee replacement procedures through computer-aided planning that ensures optimal implant positioning, personalized surgical approaches based on each patient’s unique anatomy, and improved implant longevity and joint function.

In surgical oncology, robotic technology enables surgeons to perform complex cancer resections with unprecedented accuracy, ensuring complete tumor removal while maximizing the preservation of healthy tissue.

Dr. Sudhakar Kantipudi, Chief Operating Officer, Manipal, Cluster emphasized the strategic significance and said: "The launch of our Robotics Surgery Program represents a strategic commitment to the future of healthcare delivery in coastal Karnataka. The Robotics Surgery Program will create a profound impact in orthopedics and other surgical specialties, where precision is critical. By bringing robotic surgery to Udupi district, we are reducing the burden on patients and families who previously had to travel to metro cities for such procedures. This cutting-edge technology combines the expertise of skilled surgeons with the precision of advanced robotics, resulting in significantly improved patient outcomes. This program will strengthen our clinical capabilities, reinforce our position as a leading healthcare provider, and create a sustainable model for technology-driven, patient-centric care."

Dr. H.S. Ballal, Pro-Chancellor, MAHE, addressed the gathering and emphasized: "Today marks a proud moment for the MAHE and Kasturba Hospital family. The introduction of comprehensive robotic surgery programs for the people of Udupi district is not just a technological upgrade—it is a testament to our unwavering commitment to bringing world-class healthcare to every community we serve. This program embodies MAHE’s mission to combine clinical excellence with compassionate care, and I am confident it will set new benchmarks in regional healthcare delivery. We are not just launching a program; we are transforming lives and writing a new chapter in accessible, advanced healthcare."

The event was concluded with a Vote of Thanks by – Dr. Avinash Shetty, Medical Superintendent, Kasturba Hospital, Manipal.