GIMS performs Pakistan's first semi-active robotic neurospine surgery in major healthcare milestone

KARACHI: The Gambat Institute of Medical Sciences (GIMS) has successfully performed Pakistan's first semi-active robotic neurospine surgery, marking a major milestone in the country's adoption of advanced surgical technologies and specialised spine care.

The landmark procedure was carried out at GIMS, a public-sector tertiary care institution in Sindh that has increasingly expanded access to highly specialised medical services and advanced treatment technologies.

According to the institute, the procedure was performed by Dr. Pir Asad Aziz, Head of Robotic Neurospine Surgery, along with his multidisciplinary surgical team using semi-active robotic technology designed to enhance precision during complex spine procedures.

Semi-active robotic systems assist surgeons by providing highly accurate guidance and instrument positioning while allowing the surgeon to remain in direct control of critical surgical decisions. Internationally, robotic-assisted spine surgery has been associated with improved surgical precision and enhanced planning for complex spinal procedures.

Experts say robotic technologies have the potential to improve the accuracy of implant placement and minimise damage to surrounding tissues. Such procedures may also be associated with reduced blood loss, less postoperative pain, lower complication rates and faster recovery in appropriately selected patients.

The successful introduction of semi-active robotic neurospine surgery represents an important step for Pakistan's healthcare system, where access to highly specialised robotic procedures remains limited.

GIMS said the development reflects ongoing efforts to strengthen advanced healthcare services in Sindh and expand access to modern medical technologies within the province.

The institute's administration, led by Director Dr. Rahim Bux Bhatti, stated that GIMS remains committed to advancing medical research, expanding robotic surgery programmes and adopting innovative technologies to provide high-quality, evidence-based patient care.

The institute also noted that expanding robotic-assisted surgical capabilities could help reduce the need for some patients to seek highly specialised treatments abroad by making advanced procedures increasingly accessible within Pakistan.

Healthcare experts view the adoption of robotic surgery as an important component of modern medicine, particularly in neurosurgery and spine care, where even small improvements in precision can significantly influence patient outcomes.

The achievement further positions Sindh among the regions in Pakistan actively integrating emerging healthcare technologies and highlights the growing role of robotic-assisted surgery in shaping the future of specialised medical care in the country.

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