In a groundbreaking move aimed at revolutionizing ovarian cancer treatment, Apollo Proton Cancer Centre (APCC) has introduced the Robotic Surgery Programme for Ovarian Cancers, marking a significant milestone in India's medical landscape.

As part of this initiative, APCC has successfully completed India’s First Robotic Cytoreductive Surgery (CRS) with Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy (HIPEC) in two cases of advanced ovarian cancers.

The company revealed that the pioneering procedure was performed on a 48-year-old patient, referred to as Thara, from Guwahati, who was diagnosed with carcinoma of the ovary with omental and peritoneal metastases.

Following three cycles of neoadjuvant chemotherapy, which notably reduced her cancer burden, Thara underwent a complex robotic-assisted interval cytoreductive surgery. The procedure involved extensive surgical clearance followed by HIPEC using a closed technique, ensuring precise temperature control and optimal drug distribution.

Remarkably, Thara was also found to have breast cancer during her pre-surgery evaluation, and both breast cancer and ovarian cancer surgeries were successfully conducted in the same sitting, thanks to the minimally invasive robotic system. Thara's remarkable recovery saw her discharged within three days post-surgery.

Additionally, the program extended its benefits to Amala, a 40-year-old patient from Chennai, who was battling the recurrence of a rare tumor known as extrauterine endometrial stromal sarcoma. Amala underwent a similarly extensive robotic cytoreductive surgery, which involved the removal of multiple cancer-affected tissues and organs, showcasing the versatility and efficacy of robotic surgery in managing complex cancer recurrences.

Compared to traditional open CRS procedures, robotic-assisted interval cytoreductive surgery offers several advantages, including a significant reduction in hospital stay from over 10 days to just three days, minimized blood loss, and decreased post-operative pain.

The robotic system enables clinicians to access multiple deep areas of the abdomen effectively and clear disease, leading to faster recovery and resumption of normal activities for patients. This minimally invasive approach not only enhances patient comfort but also aligns with optimal treatment outcomes.

The launch of APCC's Robotic Surgery Programme for Ovarian Cancers underscores the institution's commitment to leveraging cutting-edge technology to provide advanced and effective cancer care. With its successful implementation and promising outcomes, the program holds the potential to transform the landscape of ovarian cancer treatment in India, offering renewed hope and improved prospects for patients battling this formidable disease.