Medanta Lucknow Performs UP’s First Robotic Heart Bypass

Lucknow : In a landmark medical achievement, Medanta Hospital, Lucknow, has successfully performed Uttar Pradesh's first robotic heart bypass surgery in a corporate hospital. The procedure, conducted on a 75-year-old patient with over 90% arterial blockage, has opened a new chapter in cardiac care by offering a less invasive and faster-recovery alternative to traditional open-heart surgeries.

The patient, a senior citizen with a history of heart attack and only 40-45% heart functionality, was unwilling to undergo a conventional open-heart surgery. Traditional coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) procedures involve a large incision through the breastbone, often requiring weeks of recovery and significant postoperative discomfort.

Dr. Gaurang Majumdar, Director of Cardiac Surgery at Medanta Lucknow, led the team in performing the bypass through a robotic-assisted method using just a 3-centimeter incision between the ribs. “We harvested the internal mammary artery and performed the bypass without cutting any bones,” he explained. “The robotic system gave us superior visibility and control, allowing us to operate with precision.”

This minimally invasive surgery meant less bleeding, lower risk of infection, reduced pain, and a faster return to normal life. The patient was removed from the ventilator within 5 hours and was walking independently by the next morning. He was discharged on the fourth day—far earlier than the typical 7-10 day stay required after open-heart surgery.

While conventional surgery demands 6 to 12 weeks for full recovery, robotic-assisted bypass patients can resume routine activities within just 2 to 4 weeks. Moreover, the cosmetic outcome is far better, as the tiny incision leaves minimal scarring.

Robotic cardiac surgery involves high-definition 3D visualization and state-of-the-art instruments controlled remotely by the surgeon. Unlike traditional methods, the surgeon operates from a console, eliminating physical fatigue and enabling a higher number of surgeries per day without compromising quality.

“India sees nearly 2 to 2.5 lakh heart bypass surgeries annually. Robotic techniques are ideal for patients who are reluctant or unfit for traditional surgery,” said Dr. Majumdar. “However, it's not suitable for emergency cases or patients with previous heart attacks, where open surgery remains the best option.”

Executing such a complex procedure requires advanced training and infrastructure. Medanta Lucknow has now positioned itself as a pioneer in adopting next-generation cardiac surgery technologies in the state.

This milestone marks a significant advancement in Uttar Pradesh’s healthcare capabilities, offering heart patients safer, quicker, and more comfortable treatment options. As robotic surgery gains wider acceptance, it promises to redefine cardiac care standards across India.