MN Report
KARACHI: Caretaker Health Minister of Sindh, Dr. Saad Khalid Niaz, has raised significant concerns over the use of robotic surgery at Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre (JPMC). In a recent statement, Dr. Niaz criticised the practice of robotic gallbladder surgery, labeling it a wasteful expenditure. He pointed out that the cost of this surgery, which amounts to approximately $1,500 to $2,000, translates to around four and a half to five lakh rupees, significantly more than conventional methods.
Expressing his disapproval, Dr. Saad Khalid Niaz stated that such an expensive utilization of robotic technology is misguided, particularly at a time when the healthcare system should be focusing on cost-effective measures. He further revealed that the Sindh health department has halted any further procurement of robots in light of the current financial constraints.
Dr. Niaz emphasized that the resources spent on acquiring and operating robotic systems could be better utilized to enhance the capabilities of numerous small and large hospitals, ensuring the provision of free and affordable basic healthcare services to the general populace.
It is worth noting that the inaugural robotic gallbladder surgery at Jinnah Hospital Karachi was successfully performed yesterday under the guidance of Professor Shahid Rasool, with Dr. Saddam and Dr. Mansab completing the procedure in just 25 minutes. The procedure was conducted on a 34-year-old patient, marking a milestone in the hospital's surgical capabilities.
