India positioned as emerging leader in robotic-assisted cardiothoracic surgery, say experts at global conference

• The two-day international conference hosted by SMICTSI brought together cardiothoracic specialists, residents, and industry leaders to familiarize cutting-edge robotic applications
• The event held in Bengaluru emphasized the role of evidence-based robotic technology in advancing precision surgery while improving patient outcomes

National, 17th September 2025: Global experts at the annual conference of the Society of Minimally Invasive Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgeons of India (SMICTSI 2025) held in Bengaluru opined that India is positioned as an emerging leader in robotic-assisted cardiac surgery. The prestigious event brought together leading cardiac and thoracic surgeons from across the world to explore the transformative role of robotics in minimally invasive cardiac procedures. The conference, held in partnership with advanced robotic technology providers including Intuitive, focused on evidence-based applications of robotic surgery in complex cardiac procedures.

The conference featured distinguished international faculties alongside leading Indian experts. With over 600 surgeons and 21 international surgeons, the event showcased cutting-edge robotic applications, comprehensive case presentations, expert panel discussions, workshops and focused roundtable sessions. Participants explored breakthroughs in robotic-assisted cardiac surgery, highlighting how these innovations are enabling minimally invasive procedures that lead to quicker recovery, reduced trauma, and shorter hospital stays compared to conventional surgery.

Speaking about the event, Dr. Sathyaki Nambala, Organizing Secretary of this conference and Chief Surgeon, Robotic & Minimally Invasive Cardiac Surgery at Apollo Hospitals, said, “Platforms like this are tremendously important, not just to prepare the next generation of surgeons, but also to transform perceptions. Many young surgeons come in thinking robotic surgery isn’t for them, but when they see what’s possible, it changes everything. The enthusiasm we’ve seen at the conference from international faculty to emerging Indian practitioners has been remarkable. We’re witnessing the evolution of cardiac surgery where robotic assistance is increasingly enabling us to perform complex procedures through minimal access. The human–machine synergy demonstrated here points to an exciting future, where advanced, less invasive cardiac procedures will become accessible to patients across India, moving beyond a handful of specialized centres.”

Darla Hutton, Global Vice President – Cardiac Surgery, Intuitive, said, “India stands out as a rapidly growing hub for robotic cardiac surgery on the global stage. With over 200 million people at risk or diagnosed with cardiovascular disease and only around 300,000 surgeries performed annually, the unmet need is significant. The combination of a large patient population requiring care, exceptionally skilled surgeons, and rapidly advancing adoption of robotic technologies like the da Vinci creates tremendous potential. The enthusiasm and expertise of Indian cardiac surgeons, coupled with growing patient acceptance, is placing India at the forefront of minimally invasive robotic cardiac surgery globally.”

Robotic-assisted cardiothoracic surgery is experiencing rapid adoption across India, particularly in specialized procedures such as robotic CABG, mitral valve repair, and thoracic oncology operations. This growth trajectory is supported by demonstrated improvements in patient outcomes and enhanced surgical precision in challenging cases.