Shimla | Enoxx News
In a monumental leap for public healthcare in Himachal Pradesh, the Indira Gandhi Medical College and Hospital (IGMC) in Shimla is fully geared up to commence robotic surgeries by March 2026. Following the successful introduction of this advanced medical technology at the Atal Institute of Medical Super Specialties (AIMSS) Chamiana and Dr. Rajendra Prasad Government Medical College in Tanda, IGMC will be the third premier institution in the state to offer these state-of-the-art medical services.
The hospital has successfully received the advanced robotic surgical system, procured at an estimated cost of ₹28 crore. The intricate machinery is currently being installed in the operation theater of the Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery (CTVS) department, located in Block B of the hospital complex.
Before the system is rolled out for public use, the hospital administration is ensuring that its medical staff is thoroughly prepared. A rigorous simulation training program for the surgeons of the general surgery department has already commenced. Under the direct supervision of technical experts from the robot manufacturing company, doctors are honing their skills on the digital console. This specialized training will not only enhance their surgical precision but will also help the surgeons acquire the mandatory certification—often referred to as a “robotic driving license”—required to operate the sophisticated equipment safely.
The introduction of robot-assisted surgery is set to revolutionize patient care at IGMC. The technology utilizes a specialized console equipped with a 3D, high-definition camera that provides surgeons with a magnified, 360-degree view of the surgical site. By manipulating robotic arms equipped with tiny surgical instruments, doctors can perform highly complex procedures through miniature incisions. For patients suffering from severe ailments such as colon cancer, liver disease, and prostate cancer, this translates to significantly less pain, reduced blood loss, a lower risk of post-operative infections, and a much faster recovery time compared to traditional open surgeries.
Furthermore, a dedicated focus is being placed on women’s healthcare. Under the directives of Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, a specialized tie-up has been arranged with the Kamla Nehru Hospital (KNH). IGMC has earmarked 40 dedicated beds specifically for gynaecological patients referred from KNH who require robotic interventions. Doctors from KNH will also undergo training to perform elective robotic surgeries at IGMC, ensuring a seamless and efficient treatment pathway for female patients.
To complement these surgical advancements, the state government is also establishing an AI-equipped smart diagnostic laboratory at IGMC with an additional investment of ₹25 crore. This entire overhaul is part of the Himachal Pradesh government’s broader ₹3,000 crore health sector initiative, which aims to provide AIIMS-standard healthcare facilities locally, effectively eliminating the need for residents to travel to Chandigarh or Delhi for critical treatments.
