Kauvery Hospital, Vadapalani, has performed robotic surgeries for colorectal cancer on three patients with obesity and multiple medical conditions, and all three have been discharged within four days of the procedures.According to the hospital, the patients — aged between 45 and 60 — weighed more than 100 kg each and had a body mass index of 38-40. They also had conditions such as diabetes, cardiac ailments, a history of abdominal surgeries, and prior radiotherapy, which added to the complexity of the procedures.The patients had complex colorectal cancers, including very low rectal cancers and colon tumours located deep within the pelvis, a region that presents surgical challenges, particularly in overweight individuals and those with a history of previous surgeries or radiation treatment.The surgeries were performed over three consecutive days by Swaminathan Sambandham, robotic gastrointestinal and colorectal surgeon, along with a multidisciplinary team. The procedures were performed using a minimally invasive robotic approach without large abdominal incisions. The cancer specimens were retrieved through the stoma site, avoiding additional abdominal cuts.“These were among the most technically challenging colorectal cancer surgeries because of the patients’ medical conditions. Operating deep within the pelvis in patients living with obesity, especially those with a history of previous surgeries or radiation therapy, is extremely demanding. Robotic surgery provides enhanced precision, better visualisation, and greater control, allowing us to perform these procedures safely while reducing trauma to the patient,” Dr. Sambandham said.Aravindan Selvaraj, co-founder and executive director, Kauvery Group of Hospitals, said such cases were traditionally associated with restricted operating space and a high risk of blood loss, wound complications, and prolonged recovery.“The patients’ early mobilisation and discharge within four days, despite the complexity of their condition, reflects the advantages of advanced robotic surgery when combined with meticulous surgical planning and multidisciplinary care,” he said.The surgeries were part of the hospital’s robotic gastrointestinal and colorectal cancer surgery programme. Published - June 11, 2026 09:27 pm IST