First time in India, patient with dual diagnosis, undergoes Robotic CRS with HIPEC 

Chennai, May 16, 2024: Apollo Proton Cancer Centre (APCC), South East Asia’s first and largest proton therapy announces the launch of the Robotic Surgery Programme for Ovarian Cancer and the successful completion of Tamil Nadu’s First Robotic Cytoreductive Surgery (CRS) with Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy (HIPEC) in two unique cases of advanced ovarian cancer. These medical milestones mark a significant advancement in the regional cancer treatment landscape, offering new hope and improved care standards for patients battling this severe illness.

48-year-old Ms. Thara,(name changed on request) from Guwahati, was suffering from carcinoma of the ovary with omental and peritoneal metastases. After receiving three cycles of neoadjuvant chemotherapy, which significantly reduced her cancer burden. Post this, she underwent a complex robotic-assisted interval cytoreductive surgery. The procedure included a series of extensive surgical interventions, culminating in HIPEC using a closed technique, which ensures precise temperature control and optimal drug distribution.She was also diagnosed with breast cancer during her work up for ovarian cancer. She underwent surgery for breast cancer in the same sitting. The use of robotic platform enabled both the surgeries to be done with minimal morbidity and the patient was discharged in three days.

Ms. Amala, (name changed on request) a 40-year-old lady from Chennai, was battling against recurrence of a rare tumor called -extrauterine endometrial stromal sarcoma. She underwent a similar extensive robotic cytoreductive surgery, which included the removal of multiple cancer-affected tissues and organs, demonstrating the versatility and reach of robotic surgery in treating complex cancer recurrences.

Compared to traditional open CRS, robotic-assisted interval cytoreductive surgery that reduced the hospital stay from over 10 days to just three days, minimized blood loss, and decreased the need for post-operative pain management.The robotic platform also helps the clinicians to access multiple hidden areas of the abdomen effectively and clear the disease from there. Patients benefit from a faster return of bowel function and quicker resumption of normal activities, including timely continuation of adjuvant therapies. This, minimally invasive technology, not only enhances patient comfort and recovery but also aligns with the best outcomes.

Dr. Venkat P, Senior Consultant – Surgical Oncology, Apollo Proton Cancer Centre, said, “At Apollo Proton Cancer Centre, we are continually advancing our capabilities in robotic technology. The dual surgeries for advanced ovarian cancer utilized cutting-edge robotic systems that provide superior precision and flexibility. The intricate nature of this surgery, involving multiple resections and HIPEC, showcases the remarkable precision and dexterity offered by robotic technology. In these particular cases, the ability to achieve optimal cytoreduction while preserving healthy tissues is crucial for the patient’s long-term prognosis.”

Dr. Priya Kapoor, Consultant – Surgical Oncology, Apollo Proton Cancer Centre, said, “The new approach– Robotic Cytoreductive Surgery with HIPEC– is a testament to our meticulous planning and the precision that robotic surgery offers. For our patients, this meant less invasive procedures and targeted chemotherapy delivery at elevated temperatures, directly at the site of the tumor. This approach significantly enhances the efficacy of the treatment while reducing the typical complications associated with open surgeries.”

Ms.Amala said, “Robotic Surgery helped me to recover quickly due to the minimum cut and less wastage of blood. The experts explained the procedures which helped me to prepare myself for the surgery.”

At Apollo Proton Cancer Centre, the commitment towards advancing cancer care is underscored with the latest technology. They continue to pioneer significant advancements in medical treatments, reinforcing its position as a leader in healthcare and cancer care innovation. These landmark surgeries in Tamil Nadu highlight the centre’s ongoing commitment to bringing world-class healthcare to the patients and setting new benchmarks in cancer care.

#WinningOverCancer

About Apollo Proton Cancer Centre (APCC), Chennai, India

Apollo Proton Cancer Centre is the most advanced Cancer Centre and the first Proton Therapy Centre in South Asia & the Middle East and India’s first JCI-accredited Cancer hospital. It is the country’s first and only hospital to have proton beam therapy in clinical operation. At the bedrock of APCC’s approach to treating cancer is its robust multi-disciplinary platform; highly skilled professionals who come together to form a cancer management team (CMT). Each CMT is focused on delivering the best possible outcomes for its patients. An added feather in the cap is the recent launch of India’s first & only site-specific Robotic Oncology Program.

For more information, please contact: Apollo Proton cancer Centre

Jay S | Jayasankar_s@apollohospitals.com | 99404 24386

For media inquiries, please contact: MSL Jagan R | jagan.rajagopalan@mslgroup.com | 9840966867

Samayeshwari Vithaspa | samayeshwari.vithaspa@mslgroup.com | 9940032587 Nanda Gopal | nanda.gopal@mslgroup.com | 9176218089