Surgeons at the Pakistan Kidney and Liver Institute and Research Centre (PKLI) in Lahore successfully performed the country’s first robotic Whipple surgery, marking a significant step in advanced cancer and liver treatment. The procedure, used for pancreatic and bile duct cancers, was done with precision through minimally invasive techniques, reducing recovery time and surgical risks for patients.
PKLI officials also reported Pakistan’s first robotic right hemi-hepatectomy, a complex liver operation, demonstrating that high-end surgical procedures can now be done locally without patients needing to travel abroad. Dr. Faisal Saud Dar, PKLI Dean, said the institute has completed nearly 500 robotic surgeries across various specialties, reflecting the growing expertise of public-sector hospitals in modern surgical care.
The Whipple surgery, traditionally performed through large open incisions, is known for its complexity and long recovery period. With robotic assistance, surgeons can operate through small incisions, improving accuracy, reducing blood loss, and limiting post-surgery complications.
Dr. Dar praised the Punjab government’s continued support for investment in advanced surgical technology and training of specialist surgeons. He also noted that PKLI’s management model may be adopted in future healthcare institutions across Pakistan to expand access to high-quality treatment.
The achievement coincided with PKLI’s international medical symposium, which hosted global experts, including representatives from the World Health Organization. The event highlighted Pakistan’s emerging role in advanced surgical training and healthcare innovation, opening doors for collaboration and knowledge exchange in medical technology.