By: IPP Bureau
Last updated : June 02, 2026 5:44 pm
Real-time remote collaboration during robotic-assisted cholecystectomy showcases new possibilities for surgical mentoring, education, and knowledge sharing across institutions
The Departments of Surgery at AIIMS Delhi and AIIMS Raipur successfully collaborated on a tele-mentored robotic-assisted cholecystectomy using the telepresence capability available on the da Vinci surgical platform.
The procedure was performed at AIIMS Raipur and supported remotely by Dr. Sunil Chumber from AIIMS Delhi through Intuitive’s telepresence technology. The collaboration enabled real-time interaction between the surgical teams, demonstrating how digital connectivity can facilitate surgical mentoring, knowledge exchange, and clinical collaboration across geographically distant institutions.
During the surgery, the teams collaborated on critical aspects of robotic-assisted cholecystectomy, including operative workflow, intraoperative coordination, controlled tissue dissection, and safe cystic duct dissection techniques. The interaction enabled continuous discussion and knowledge sharing throughout key stages of the procedure.
Rohitt Mahajan, Vice President and General Manager, Intuitive India, said telepresence supports real-time collaboration and peer-to-peer education by enabling surgeons to connect remotely when in-person participation is not feasible.
Dr. Virinder Kumar Bansal, Professor, Department of Surgery, AIIMS New Delhi, highlighted the growing role of collaborative and connected healthcare models. He noted that evolving surgical technologies can help bridge geographical barriers, support institutional collaboration, enhance surgical education, and improve access to specialized care across regions.
Dr. Sunil Chumber, Head of the Department of Surgical Disciplines, AIIMS Delhi, said that having recently surpassed 1,000 robotic-assisted surgeries at AIIMS New Delhi, the institution was pleased to share its experience with the AIIMS Raipur team, particularly in critical operative steps such as tissue dissection aimed at avoiding common bile duct injury.
Lt Gen Ashok Jindal (Retd), Executive Director and CEO of AIIMS Raipur, emphasized that the future of healthcare will depend not only on technological innovation but also on effective collaboration among institutions. He noted that technology-enabled partnerships can strengthen clinical capabilities, support skill development, and contribute to more connected healthcare ecosystems.
Dr. Debajyoti Mohanty, Professor, and Dr. Tridip Dutta, Additional Professor, Department of General Surgery, AIIMS Raipur, said the collaboration facilitated continuous discussion on surgical techniques, operative workflow, and intraoperative coordination during critical phases of the procedure.