Egypt: First Surgical Robot Begins Operation at Nasser Institute Hospital

surgery performs A robot

Surgical robot in Egyptian hospitals... and specialists explain

The Egyptian Minister of Health and Population, Dr. Khaled Abdel Ghaffar, held a meeting with representatives from Technowave and Medbot to discuss the implementation of surgical robot technology in the ministry's medical facilities, as part of the state's plan to modernize the healthcare system and benefit from global technologies.

The minister emphasized that the use of surgical robots represents a qualitative leap in surgical interventions, given their high precision and advanced technologies that improve surgical outcomes, reduce error rates, and increase patient safety. He noted the ministry's commitment to introducing the latest medical technologies to enhance the quality of healthcare.

In a new step towards modernizing the healthcare system in Egypt, the Ministry of Health announced an extensive meeting with two specialized companies to discuss mechanisms for implementing surgical robot technology in its hospitals. This comes as part of Egypt's strategy to transition to a more advanced medical system that relies on the latest global technologies in the field of microsurgery.

The Ministry affirmed that the introduction of robotic surgery will represent a qualitative leap in the level of surgical interventions, given its exceptional precision, reduced error rates, and faster recovery times, thus enhancing patient safety and improving surgical outcomes. The Nasser Institute is scheduled to witness the launch of the first operational trial of the surgical robot, paving the way for its expansion to several major hospitals in the coming phase.

Four Separate Robotic Arms

surgical procedure for doctors

Commenting on this, Professor Ahmed Mustafa Mahmoud, Professor of Surgical Oncology at Cairo University, told Al-Arabiya.net/Al-Hadath.net that robotic surgery represents a fusion of modern scientific advancements and the surgeon's accumulated skills and experience. Mahmoud explained that the system relies on four separate robotic arms, one equipped with a high-resolution 3D camera, while the other three carry advanced, multi-jointed surgical instruments that allow for a range of motion exceeding that of the human hand.

Not a Replacement for the Surgeon

He emphasized that the robot is not a replacement for the surgeon, but rather an advanced tool at their disposal. The surgeon controls it completely via a sophisticated control unit located near the patient. The robot accurately translates the surgeon's hand movements, enabling the procedure to be performed with the utmost safety and efficiency.

He explained that the most distinctive feature of these surgeries is that they are performed under a microscope. This allows for "complete control and direction by the surgeon," enabling highly precise interventions down to the millimeter, with up to 10x magnification and a stable 3D view. This allows for free movement within narrow areas and deep body cavities, enhancing the chances of complete tumor removal compared to traditional methods.

Furthermore, he affirmed that robotic surgeries are patient-friendly, contributing to a reduction in complications and post-operative pain. They also shorten hospital stays, accelerate recovery, and facilitate a quicker return home, to work, and to daily activities, thus positively impacting quality of life after the operation.

“A Risk Factor”

In contrast, Mohamed Abdel Wahab, a pioneer of liver transplantation in Egypt and head of the liver transplant team at Mansoura University, expressed reservations about the widespread use of robots across all specialties. Abdel Wahab stated that these systems rely on AI-powered technology and electricity, making any sudden malfunction a risk factor that could affect the procedure and patient safety.

He further explained that liver transplantation is one of the most complex and delicate surgeries, requiring specialized preparation for both the patient and the donor, as well as exceptional human skill in liver partitioning, reconnecting delicate arteries and veins, and immediately managing any bleeding or emergencies. He emphasized that such situations demand instantaneous assessment, surgical instinct, and accumulated experience that cannot be fully programmed.

Useful in Other Types of Surgery

However, he noted that while relying on robots in liver transplant surgeries is challenging, the technology could be suitable and beneficial in other types of procedures, particularly delicate or limited surgeries that do not require this level of complexity or the ability to handle unexpected changes. He emphasized that the use of surgical robots must be tailored to the specific needs of each specialty, ensuring the highest levels of patient safety.