Robotic surgery helps Mizoram woman beat early-stage uterine cancer

A 68-year-old woman from Mizoram has successfully recovered from early-stage uterine (endometrial) cancer after undergoing robotic-assisted surgery at Manipal Hospital, EM Bypass, Kolkata, highlighting the growing role of advanced minimally invasive technology in cancer treatment. The procedure was performed by Dr. Arunava Roy, Head of Gynaecology Oncology and Robotic Surgery (Gynaecology), along with his multidisciplinary team. The patient, Lalhlupuii from Aizawl, initially sought treatment after experiencing abnormal uterine bleeding. A biopsy confirmed FIGO Grade I endometrial cancer, following which she was referred to the Kolkata hospital for specialised care. After MRI and CT scans, doctors recommended robotic-assisted surgery considering the early stage of the disease.

She underwent a four-hour robotic-assisted hysterectomy along with the removal of both ovaries, fallopian tubes and pelvic lymph nodes. Doctors said the patient resumed oral intake on the same day, experienced minimal pain, and was shifted directly to the general ward. Final histopathology confirmed that the cancer was confined to the uterus, eliminating the need for chemotherapy or radiation therapy. She was discharged the following day, resumed normal activities within a week and is scheduled for a routine follow-up after six months. Dr. Arunava Roy said robotic surgery offers greater precision, minimal blood loss, smaller incisions and faster recovery compared to conventional open surgery, enabling even elderly patients to achieve favourable outcomes when diagnosed early.

In Aizawl, the successful treatment reflects the increasing willingness of patients from Mizoram to access advanced tertiary healthcare facilities outside the state for specialised procedures. It also highlights rising awareness of robotic-assisted surgery among patients and caregivers, a trend expected to boost demand for high-end cancer care referrals from the Northeast while encouraging greater investment in advanced healthcare services and cross-state medical collaborations.

By Business Bureau