Robotic surgery is most commonly used for — endometrial (uterine) cancer, cervical cancer, early-stage ovarian cancer and complex benign conditions like large fibroids or severe endometriosis | Image used for representational purposes only
| Photo Credit: Getty Images/iStockphoto
June is Uterine Cancer Awareness Month — a vital time to spotlight one of the fastest-rising cancers among women. In India, the incidence of uterine (endometrial) cancer has nearly doubled since 2020, with projections showing over 30,000 new cases by 2025. This sharp rise is closely linked to modern lifestyle shifts, particularly the growing prevalence of obesity, diabetes, sedentary habits, and delayed childbearing.
Yet despite its increasing numbers, awareness remains low — making early diagnosis and advanced surgical care more critical than ever.
As we observe Uterine Cancer Awareness Month, a quiet revolution is taking place in operating rooms across the country. Cancer surgery has changed irrevocably — and it’s agent is robotic.
Why robotic-assisted surgeries ?
Gone are the days when open abdominal surgeries with big incisions were the only option for treating uterine and other gynaecological cancers. Today, robotic-assisted surgeries are offering women safer, quicker, and more precise alternatives — and they are rapidly becoming the gold standard for treatment of uterine cancers across the world .
Uterine and other gynaecological cancers often require surgical intervention as a first-line treatment. Traditionally, these surgeries involved large incisions, long hospital stays, blood transfusions and weeks of painful recovery. This means women go through a lot of pain, have more chances of contracting an infection, have to spend a lot of time out of work, and can have delays in the start of the next cancer treatment. More over, most uterine cancer patients are obese, and therefore have more chances of complications with traditional open surgeries .
Robotic surgery changes that. Here’s why it’s gaining traction: It is minimally invasive — robotic tools operate through small incisions, reducing trauma to the body. And the recovery is faster recovery, most women go home within 24–48 hours and resume normal activity much sooner. We now do uterine cancer surgeries as day-care procedures where patients get discharged the same day .
There is greater surgical precision as surgeons operate using a high-definition 3D camera and robotic arms with unmatched dexterity. The robotic arms are so precise that they can reach the areas of the body where human hands cannot.
Additionally, lesser blood loss and fewer complications translate to safer outcomes, especially for patients with co-existing health issues.
The surgeon’s expertise
Despite its futuristic name, the robot doesn’t perform the surgery on its own. It is merely a highly advanced tool that enhances a skilled surgeon’s ability to operate with precision and control. Think of it as a finely-tuned instrument, not an autonomous machine. The surgeon behind the robotic consoles who maneuvers these instruments is crucial to the whole set up .
Robotic surgery is most commonly used for — endometrial (uterine) cancer, cervical cancer, early-stage ovarian cancer and complex benign conditions like large fibroids or severe endometriosis.
For uterine cancer patients — especially those diagnosed early — robotic surgery offers a combination of thorough cancer removal and rapid recovery, allowing them to move forward with confidence. After seeing such impeccable results with robotic surgery we have moved all our indicated uterine cancer patients towards robotic surgery . Nothing can match the happy faces we get after these success stories .
Providing better care for women through technology
Access to advanced technology isn’t just about convenience — it’s about equity and empowerment. When women are offered cutting-edge, less invasive treatment options, they’re more likely to seek care earlier, adhere to follow-ups, and maintain a better quality of life post-treatment.
Uterine cancer can be frightening, but today’s tools — especially robotic-assisted surgery — are changing the narrative from fear to hope. As more hospitals and cancer centres adopt this technology, it is important for women to know that they have options that are safe, effective, and less disruptive to their lives.
During this month of awareness, let us ensure that every woman has access to knowledge, technology, and care that respects both her body and her dignity.
(Dr. Venkat P. is a surgical oncologist at Apollo Cancer Centre, Veritas cancer care team, Venkatoncosurgeon@gmail.com. Dr. Priya Kapoor is a surgical oncologist at Apollo Cancer Care, Veritas cancer care team. priyaskapoor@gmail.com )
Published – June 09, 2025 02:33 pm IST
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