India’s First Robotic System Performs Telesurgeries

07-03-2025

India’s indigenous Surgical robotic system, SSI Mantra, performed two world-first robotic cardiac telesurgeries with latency of only 40 milliseconds.

Telesurgery uses robotics and cameras to allow surgeons to perform operations from any location with a high-speed data connection.

These revolutionary surgeries connected SS Innovations’ headquarters in Gurugram with Manipal Hospital in Jaipur, covering a distance of 286 kilometers.
This breakthrough highlights the transformative potential of telesurgery in delivering precision-driven, remote-controlled surgical interventions.

Two critical robotic telesurgeries were successfully performed:

1. Telerobotic-Assisted Internal Mammary Artery Harvesting

Completion Time: 58 minutes
Latency: 35–40 milliseconds (equivalent to 1/20th of a second)

2. Robotic Beating Heart Totally Endoscopic Coronary Artery Bypass (TECAB)

One of the most complex cardiac surgeries
Latency: 40 milliseconds

Technological Advancements Needed for Telesurgeries

While this achievement is a major step forward, further technological enhancements are essential to refine and expand the scope of telesurgeries.

Challenge	Solution
Ultra-Low Latency Communication	5G & 6G networks for near-instant data transmission.
	Satellite-based internet (e.g., Starlink, BharatNet) for uninterrupted connectivity.
	Edge computing & AI-driven network optimization to reduce data delays.
AI & Machine Learning Integration	AI-powered robotic assistance for real-time error correction.
	Machine learning-based predictive analytics for complications.
	AI-enhanced image processing for better visualization.
Haptic Feedback & Tactile Sensation	Advanced haptic gloves & sensors to replicate resistance/texture sensation.
Haptic Feedback & Tactile Sensation	AI-driven force feedback for delicate tissue handling.
High-Resolution 3D & AR/VR Visualization	4K/8K 3D imaging for detailed visuals.
	AR overlays to highlight key anatomical structures.
	VR integration for immersive remote surgical training.
Cybersecurity & Data Encryption	End-to-end encryption & blockchain for patient data security.
	AI-driven cybersecurity protocols to prevent unauthorized access.
	Regulatory compliance frameworks to ensure safety.
Remote Power & Infrastructure Support	UPS systems & battery backups for emergency power.
	IoT-based remote diagnostics for predicting hardware failures.
	Cloud-based failover mechanisms for uninterrupted connectivity.
Cost Reduction & Accessibility	Government funding & public-private partnerships to subsidize telesurgery.
	Scalable robotic systems with modular components to reduce costs.
	Open-source software to make telesurgery more affordable.

Indian Initiatives to Integrate Robotics in Healthcare

National Health Policy, 2017: Recognizes the significant role of technology in healthcare delivery.
Draft National Strategy on Robotics, 2023: It emphasised promotion of robotics including in healthcare and provides for setting up of the Robotics Innovation Unit (RIU).
Other: Artificial Intelligence & Robotics Technology Park (ARTPARK) in IISc Bengaluru.

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India’s First Robotic System Performs Telesurgeries