What surprised many was her candid mention that she underwent robotic surgery—a minimally invasive procedure—and was back on her feet within weeks.
Her revelation has sparked a conversation: Can robotic surgery help every cancer patient heal faster? Or is it only suitable for select cases?
Let’s unpack the facts behind this increasingly popular surgical method and what it means for cancer care.
What Is Robotic Surgery, Really?
Robotic surgery isn’t done by robots alone. It’s surgeon-controlled robotic assistance, where tools are guided with precision through tiny incisions using a console system. The most well-known platform is the da Vinci Surgical System.
For cancers, robotic surgery is often used in:
Liver and pancreatic tumours
Prostate and kidney cancers
Head and neck cancers
Gynaecological cancers like cervical or uterine cancer
Compared to traditional open surgeries, robotic-assisted procedures typically lead to:
Smaller incisions
Less blood loss
Shorter hospital stays
Faster recovery
Lower risk of infection
Dipika’s Case: Why It Worked
Liver cancer surgeries are often complex due to the organ's location and high blood flow. However, in early-stage liver cancer—or when the tumour is in an accessible region—robotic resection can be highly effective.
In Dipika's case, early detection and her overall health may have made her a good candidate for robotic surgery. She has publicly credited the technology for her minimal scarring, reduced pain, and a quicker return to daily life.
But Does It Work for Everyone?
Short answer: No. Robotic surgery, while promising, is not suitable for all cancer patients, especially in cases of:
Advanced-stage cancers with widespread metastasis
Large or deeply embedded tumours
Complex anatomy or prior surgeries that limit access
Patients with severe comorbidities (heart or lung issues)
Also, robotic systems are expensive and not widely available outside urban, private hospitals, limiting access for many.
Access & Affordability: The Real Barrier
While robotic surgeries offer clear benefits, cost remains a major deterrent in India. A robotic cancer surgery can cost anywhere from ₹2.5 lakh to ₹6 lakh, depending on the hospital and complexity.
Insurance coverage is growing, but many patients in government hospitals or Tier-II cities may not have this option—making early awareness and access to alternatives equally important.
Dipika Kakar’s story is inspiring—and highlights how technology is revolutionizing cancer care. But it also underscores the need for personalized treatment plans, where not just machines, but human judgment leads.
Robotic surgery is a tool—a powerful one—but it doesn’t replace the need for expert diagnostics, holistic care, and patient-centric decision-making.
