A patient once asked us a very direct question before an operation: “If robotic surgery is available, why would I choose anything else?”

It is a fair question—but the better question is, “Is robotic surgery actually the right option for my condition?” Robotic surgery can be valuable, but the technology itself should never be the reason for an operation.

What Is Robotic Surgery?

Robotic surgery is a form of minimally invasive surgery in which the surgeon controls specialised instruments from a console.

The robot does not operate independently. The surgeon makes the decisions and controls the instruments, while the system can provide enhanced visualisation, precision and flexibility during selected procedures.

For someone searching for a robotic surgeon in Dwarka Sector 1, understanding this difference is important. You are choosing a surgeon first and a technology second.

When Should You Consider a Robotic Surgeon?

When Traditional Surgery May Be More Invasive

Some operations can be performed through smaller incisions using minimally invasive techniques.

Depending on the condition, robotic assistance may help the surgeon work in confined or difficult-to-reach areas with greater control.

When Your Condition Needs Precise Dissection

Certain gastrointestinal, colorectal, hernia and other complex procedures involve delicate tissues or difficult anatomical locations.

In selected patients, robotic instruments can provide greater wrist-like movement and detailed visualisation, allowing the surgeon to perform carefully controlled movements.

When a Complex Procedure Is Being Planned

Robotic surgery may be considered for some complicated operations where conventional laparoscopy could be technically challenging.

That does not mean every complex operation needs a robot. The decision should be based on your diagnosis, medical history, previous surgeries and the surgeon's experience.

Robotic Surgery Is Growing in India

The growth of robotic surgery is no longer limited to a handful of hospitals.

A 2025 study of robotic-assisted technology in India reported 290 robotic systems installed for total joint arthroplasty as of September 2024, with Tier I hospitals accounting for half of those installations. The researchers also forecast more than 80 additional installations during 2025.

This shows how quickly robotic technology is becoming part of modern surgical care. But wider availability also makes it more important for patients to understand when the technology genuinely adds value.

The Biggest Myth About Robotic Surgery

The Robot Does Not Replace the Surgeon

This is probably the most important thing we tell patients.

A robotic system is a surgical tool. It does not independently diagnose your condition, decide whether you need surgery or choose what should happen during an unexpected complication.

The surgeon remains responsible for the clinical decisions.

A 2025 Indian study involving 507 participants found a striking gap between awareness and understanding of robotic surgery: while 89.2% reported awareness, only 17.3% demonstrated functional understanding.

So if you are considering robotic surgery, ask your surgeon to explain exactly what the technology will add to your procedure.

What Conditions May Be Treated Robotically?

Robotic techniques can be used in several surgical specialties, depending on the hospital, surgeon and available technology.

Common areas include:

  • GI Surgery

  • General Surgery

  • Hernia Surgery

  • Colorectal Surgery

  • Bariatric Surgery

  • Minimal Access Surgery

  • Selected cancer procedures

  • Selected complex abdominal procedures

A Consultant in Minimal Access, Bariatric, GI, and Robotic Surgery can assess whether a robotic approach is appropriate or whether another surgical technique would be more suitable.

What Can Patients Potentially Expect?

Smaller Incisions

Robotic surgery is generally performed through small access points rather than one large incision.

For appropriate procedures, this can reduce wound size and may support a smoother recovery.

Better Visualisation

The robotic platform can provide magnified, high-definition views of the surgical field.

This can be particularly useful when operating around delicate structures or in narrow anatomical spaces.

Greater Instrument Movement

Robotic instruments are designed to provide controlled movement inside the body.

This may be helpful for certain procedures where precise suturing, dissection or reconstruction is required.

However, these advantages do not guarantee a better outcome for every patient.

A Contrarian Point Patients Should Hear

Do not choose robotic surgery simply because it sounds more advanced.

A highly experienced laparoscopic surgeon may be able to perform a particular procedure extremely well without robotic assistance. In another case, robotic technology may genuinely offer useful advantages.

The right question is not “Is robotic surgery the latest technology?”

Ask: “What specific benefit will robotic assistance provide in my case?”

That answer is far more useful when making a medical decision.

What About Hernia and GI Surgery?

Hernias are common, but not every hernia requires the same operation.

The size, location, previous surgeries, symptoms and overall health can influence whether open, laparoscopic or robotic repair is considered.

Similarly, GI surgery covers many different conditions involving the digestive system. A patient with gallbladder disease requires a different approach from someone needing colorectal surgery or complex abdominal reconstruction.

That is why personalised assessment matters.

Robotic Surgery Is Not Always the First Step

Sometimes patients arrive expecting a particular procedure because they have read about it online.

We believe the consultation should work in the opposite direction.

First establish the diagnosis. Then discuss whether surgery is necessary. After that, compare the available surgical approaches—including open, laparoscopic and robotic options where appropriate.

This keeps the treatment centred on the patient rather than the equipment.

A Practical Example

Consider a patient with a recurrent hernia after previous abdominal surgery.

Instead of immediately recommending a robotic procedure, the surgeon may first review previous operation records, examine the abdominal wall and use imaging if necessary.

Only after understanding the complexity can the team decide whether robotic repair, laparoscopy, open surgery or another approach makes the most sense.

That process is more important than simply having access to a robotic platform.

What Should You Ask a Robotic Surgeon?

Before agreeing to surgery, ask:

  • Why do I need this operation?

  • Is robotic surgery necessary in my case?

  • What are the laparoscopic and open alternatives?

  • What are the expected benefits?

  • What are the possible complications?

  • How experienced is the surgeon with this particular procedure?

  • What will recovery look like?

  • What happens if the procedure needs to be converted to another approach?

A surgeon who answers these questions clearly is giving you something more valuable than a technology pitch: informed choice.

About Dr Kaushal Kejriwal

Dr Kaushal Kejriwal is associated with modern surgical care involving general, gastrointestinal and minimally invasive procedures. His approach focuses on evaluating each patient's condition individually, explaining available treatment options and selecting the surgical technique according to clinical need rather than using advanced technology simply for its own sake.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is robotic surgery better than laparoscopic surgery?

Not automatically. Both are minimally invasive approaches, and the best option depends on the condition, procedure, surgeon's expertise and patient's individual circumstances.

Is robotic surgery safe?

Robotic surgery is used for many procedures and can be safe when performed in appropriately selected patients by a trained surgical team. Like every operation, it carries potential risks that should be discussed beforehand.

How do I know if I need robotic surgery?

You may not need it. A consultation with a qualified surgeon can help determine whether robotic surgery offers a meaningful advantage over laparoscopic or open surgery for your specific condition.

Choose the Right Treatment, Not Just the Newest Technology

If you have been advised to undergo surgery, you deserve to understand why the procedure is needed and which approach is right for you.

If you are looking for a robotic surgeon in Dwarka Sector 1, speak with Dr Kaushal Kejriwal and discuss your diagnosis, surgical options and expected recovery before making a decision.

Book a consultation to understand whether robotic surgery is genuinely suitable for your condition.

  • Robotic Surgeon in dwarka sector 6
  • Robotic Surgeon in Dwarka Sector 2
  • Robotic Surgeon in palam
  • Robotic Surgeon in dwarka sector 10