Bangladesh Marks Milestone With First Successful Robotic Surgeries at United Healthcare
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DHAKA — Bangladesh has officially entered the era of robotic-assisted surgery, with United Healthcare performing the nation’s first two procedures using the technology this week. The milestone is being hailed by medical professionals as a significant step forward in aligning the country’s healthcare infrastructure with global standards.
On Monday, Professor Rafiqus Saleheen successfully performed a gallbladder removal on a male patient, while gynecologist Professor Samsad Jahan completed a hysterectomy on a female patient at the hospital’s facility on Madani Avenue in the capital. These represent the first instances of robotic-assisted surgery ever conducted within the country.
During a press conference held on Tuesday, hospital officials confirmed that the government granted formal authorization for the procedures on Monday, with the inaugural operations commencing just ninety minutes after approval. United Healthcare is a subsidiary of the United Group.
Medical experts explained that in robotic-assisted surgery, the surgeon remains the primary operator, while the robotic system provides enhanced precision. The technology allows for smaller incisions, reduced blood loss, and minimized damage to surrounding tissues. A medical team comprising four surgeons and several nurses underwent specialized training in China to prepare for the implementation, having conducted regular practice sessions since December. During Monday’s procedures, specialist surgeons from China and India were present in the operating theater to oversee the operations.
Regarding the financial implications, hospital representatives noted that robotic-assisted surgery is expected to cost two to three times more than traditional methods. For instance, a procedure currently costing 120,000 taka could rise to between 350,000 and 400,000 taka. However, officials emphasized that these costs remain significantly lower than similar procedures in other nations, while noting the high maintenance costs associated with the robotic equipment.
Director of Healthcare Services at United Healthcare, Azharul Islam Khan, confirmed that both initial patients are currently in stable condition.
Public health expert and former chief scientific officer of the Institute of Epidemiology, Disease Control and Research, Mushtaq Hossain, praised the advancement as a positive development. However, he cautioned that intensive monitoring and rigorous oversight remain essential, noting that robotic systems are not immune to errors.
The introduction of this technology follows recent medical advancements in the country, including the deployment of artificial intelligence-driven robots for physical therapy at Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University, following donations from the Chinese government to aid those injured during the recent July uprising. Additional private hospitals are reportedly preparing to introduce robotic surgical capabilities in the near future.
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