NEW DELHI: Doctors at HCMCT Manipal Hospital Dwarka in New Delhi have successfully performed a rare robot-assisted kidney removal surgery on a 19-month-old girl from Mauritius who was suffering from a severe congenital kidney disorder. The complex procedure was carried out to remove a completely damaged and non-functioning kidney that had been causing recurrent infections since birth, marking a significant achievement in pediatric robotic surgery.
The toddler had been diagnosed with Congenital Anomalies of the Kidney and Urinary Tract (CAKUT), a birth-related condition that affects the development of the kidneys and urinary system. According to doctors, her right kidney had become completely non-functional due to multicystic dysplastic disease, a condition in which multiple cysts replace normal kidney tissue. The damaged organ had also become a recurring source of febrile urinary tract infections, posing a serious threat to her health.
Medical experts note that CAKUT is one of the leading causes of chronic kidney disease among children worldwide. The condition accounts for nearly half of pediatric chronic kidney disease cases and can progress to end-stage kidney failure if not treated appropriately.
Following a detailed medical evaluation, a multidisciplinary team at the hospital decided to perform a robotic nephrectomy, a minimally invasive procedure to remove the non-functioning kidney. The surgery was led by Dr. Vikas Jain, Head of the Department and Consultant in Urology, along with a team of pediatric specialists, anesthesiologists and surgeons.
Explaining the challenges involved, Dr. Abhinav Jain said the child was among the youngest patients to undergo robotic kidney removal surgery. He noted that operating on a patient of such a young age required exceptional precision because of the extremely limited surgical space inside the abdomen. The enlarged diseased kidney occupied most of the upper right side of the abdominal cavity, making the robotic procedure technically demanding.
Despite the complexity, the medical team successfully removed the damaged kidney while preserving the healthy functioning of the remaining organ. Doctors believe the surgery will significantly reduce the risk of recurrent infections and improve the child’s long-term quality of life.
Dr. Abhinav Jain, Consultant in Urology, highlighted the importance of specialized pediatric care during the treatment. He said that every aspect of the procedure, including patient positioning, monitoring and kidney protection, required careful planning. The team also focused on effective pain management and rapid recovery after surgery.
The hospital’s anesthesia team played a crucial role in ensuring a smooth perioperative experience. Doctors used an ultrasound-guided nerve block to provide prolonged pain relief, helping the child remain comfortable while minimizing the need for additional medication after the operation.
Manipal Hospital (Dwarka) officials reported that the child recovered well following the surgery and was discharged in stable condition. The successful outcome underscores the growing role of robotic technology in pediatric urology, enabling surgeons to perform highly complex procedures with greater precision and reduced trauma.
Healthcare experts say the case also highlights India’s increasing reputation as a destination for advanced medical treatment. The successful management of such a rare and challenging pediatric condition demonstrates the capabilities of Indian hospitals in delivering specialized care to international patients.
The achievement is expected to further strengthen confidence in robot-assisted surgery for children, particularly in cases where conventional surgical approaches may be more invasive or carry greater risks. Medical professionals believe that continued advancements in robotic technology and multidisciplinary collaboration will help expand treatment options for young patients with complex urological disorders.
The case stands as an example of how modern surgical innovation, combined with expert clinical care, can offer life-changing outcomes even for the youngest and most vulnerable patients.
This case demonstrates the expanding role of robotic surgery in pediatric urology, where enhanced precision and minimally invasive techniques can safely address complex congenital kidney disorders even in very young children. Early intervention, multidisciplinary expertise, and advanced surgical technology were crucial in preserving long-term renal health and reducing the risk of recurrent infections and future complications.
