𝘈𝘱𝘰𝘭𝘭𝘰 𝘊𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘦𝘳 𝘊𝘦𝘯𝘵𝘳𝘦 𝘓𝘢𝘶𝘯𝘤𝘩𝘦𝘴 𝘋𝘦𝘥𝘪𝘤𝘢𝘵𝘦𝘥 𝘙𝘰𝘣𝘰𝘵𝘪𝘤 𝘗𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘤 𝘚𝘶𝘳𝘨𝘦𝘳𝘺 𝘗𝘳𝘰𝘨𝘳𝘢𝘮

Chennai, June 11, 2025: Setting a new benchmark in Gastrointestinal (GI) Oncology, Apollo Cancer Centre, Chennai, has launched a Dedicated Robotic Pancreatic Surgery Program. The launch was marked by the successful completion of a series of total robotic Whipples procedures (Pancreaticoduodenectomy), considered to be one of the most complex and high-risk surgeries in GI oncology.

(L to R) Dr. Priya Kapoor, Consultant – Surgical Oncology, Apollo Cancer Centre; Dr. Venkat P, Senior Consultant, Surgical Oncology, Apollo Cancer Centre; Karan Puri, Chief Executive Officer, Apollo Cancer Centres

These complex surgeries were performed by using state-of-the-art robotic platforms by a team of experts led by Dr. Venkat P, Senior Consultant, Surgical Oncology and Dr. Priya Kapoor, Consultant, Surgical Oncology. The patients were discharged in approximately four days with no post-operative complications—a milestone in pancreatic cancer surgery recovery.

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With the successful launch of its Robotic Whipples Surgery Program, Apollo Cancer Centres reinforces its leadership in advanced gastrointestinal oncology. Spearheaded by Dr. Venkat P, one of India’s most experienced surgical oncologists, the team brings unparalleled expertise in treating both early and advanced pancreatic cancers. Pancreatic cancer often called ‘the silent killer’, typically remains symptomless in early stages and is usually diagnosed only after signs like jaundice appear. By leveraging robotic technology, the team offers patients a minimally invasive approach that ensures precision, quick recovery, and better outcomes – making a significant leap forward in pancreatic cancer care in the country.

Emphasizing the rarity and significance of this achievement, Dr. Venkat P, Senior Consultant, Surgical Oncology, Apollo Cancer Centre, Chennai, said, “Performing a fully robotic Whipple procedure is one of the most technically demanding feats in cancer surgery. It not only requires surgical skills, but also deep anatomical knowledge, advanced technology, and a precision-driven approach. The successful completion of all three anastomoses robotically showcases our team's expertise and Apollo’s commitment in pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in GI oncology. This milestone marks a new era of safer, less invasive, and faster-recovery cancer care for patients with one of the most challenging malignancies.”

Pancreatic cancer is a significant health concern in India, with rising incidence rates observed in recent years. The age-standardized incidence rate of pancreatic cancer in Indian males is approximately 3.0 per 100,000, while for females, it is around 2.1 per 100,000. These statistics highlight the growing burden of this disease, indicating that pancreatic cancer is becoming a more prevalent cause of cancer morbidity and mortality in the country. Continued efforts in early detection and awareness are essential to address the rising trend effectively.

Dr. Priya Kapoor, Consultant – Surgical Oncology, Apollo Cancer Centre, Chennai, remarked, “This dedicated program represents a significant advancement in how we approach pancreatic and gastrointestinal cancers. Robotic surgery offers patients, a gentle alternative with smaller incisions, quicker recovery, and lower complication rates without compromising on the effectiveness of the treatment. For many, it opens surgical possibilities that may have previously been ruled out due to complexity or comorbidities. By integrating advanced robotic technology with specialized oncology care, we’re not just extending lives, we are restoring hope, dignity, and the chance for patients to reclaim their lives.”

The Whipple procedure may offer a potential cure for early and borderline pancreatic cancer but it is traditionally high-risk with long recovery. With its dedicated Robotic Pancreatic Surgery Program, Apollo Cancer Centres brings world-class expertise to one of the most complex GI surgeries.

Mr. Karan Puri, Chief Executive Officer, Apollo Cancer Centres, Chennai “At Apollo, our focus is always on delivering world-class care that truly makes a difference in patients’ lives. The successful completion of our fully robotic Whipple procedure under this dedicated pancreatic program demonstrates our surgical expertise and leading-edge technology in action. This milestone embodies our patient-centric approach offering safer surgeries, faster recoveries, and hope for those facing complex cancers. We are proud to lead in making advanced, life-changing treatments accessible to patients across India and beyond.”

Apollo Cancer Centres has long been a pioneer in robotic surgeries across urology, gynecology, colorectal, and thoracic oncology. The introduction of this specialized program enhances ACC’s expertise in robotic gastrointestinal oncology, bringing precise, minimally invasive solutions to one of the most demanding and high-risk organs.

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