In a groundbreaking medical feat, HCG Manavata Cancer Centre (HCGMCC) in Nashik has become the first hospital in the world to perform Transoral Robotic Surgery (TORS) using the CMR Versius robotic system on an 89-year-old patient. The patient, who had been struggling with persistent pain while swallowing due to a lesion at the base of the tongue, underwent the pioneering surgery led by renowned surgical oncologist Prof. Dr. Raj Nagarkar.

What makes the case extraordinary is not just the advanced technology used, but the patient’s age and the precision with which the procedure was carried out. Performed in just six minutes, with the total operation completed in under 30 minutes, the minimally invasive technique resulted in zero complications. The patient began eating orally the next day and was discharged soon after in stable, disease-free condition.

“This case was a clinical challenge due to the patient’s age and associated risks with general anaesthesia,” said Prof. Dr. Nagarkar, Chief of Surgical Oncology and Robotic Services and Managing Director at KIMS Manavata Hospitals, HCGMCC, and Six Sigma. “But after careful evaluation and preparation, we went ahead with the robotic procedure—and the results were beyond encouraging.”

Transoral Robotic Surgery is a cutting-edge approach in head and neck oncology, allowing doctors to access and remove tumors through the mouth. Compared to traditional open surgery, TORS offers more precision, minimal tissue trauma, quicker recovery, and fewer complications—especially important for elderly patients who are often considered too high-risk for surgery.

This operation also marks the first time the Versius robotic platform—known for its modular design and advanced maneuverability—was used globally for a TORS procedure. The success adds another milestone to Dr. Nagarkar’s already impressive tally of over 1,600 robotic surgeries.

“This isn’t just about technology—it’s about redefining what’s possible in cancer care for elderly patients,” Dr. Nagarkar added. “With this success, we are showing that age alone shouldn’t be a barrier to receiving world-class, minimally invasive care.”

The successful outcome was made possible by a dedicated multidisciplinary team including Dr. Sirshendu Roy, Dr. Vikas Jain, Dr. Koustabh Kumar, Dr. Mohsina Hussain, Dr. Aniruddh Murli, and Dr. Asha Donde. Anaesthesia support was provided by Dr. Nayana Kulkarni and Dr. Jitendra Mahajan, with post-operative monitoring led by ICU intensivist Dr. Ulkesh Patil. Perioperative support was expertly managed by Sister Shabana Pirzade.

The operation not only showcases how robotic platforms like Versius are revolutionizing cancer surgery but also sets a new benchmark in geriatric surgical oncology, offering hope to patients and families who might otherwise consider surgery too risky.