Bengaluru, October 23, 2026: Apollo Hospitals Bengaluru, has marked a significant milestone in robotic-assisted surgery by performing India’s first surgery using the next-generation Da Vinci 5 surgical system developed by Intuitive.
The introduction of the advanced platform strengthens the hospital’s surgical capabilities, combining enhanced imaging, improved instrument control and technology designed to help surgeons better assess tissue pressure during procedures.
The system is being used across five major specialties: cardiac surgery, cancer care, gynaecology, gastrointestinal surgery and urology.
A key feature of Da Vinci 5 is its Force Feedback technology, which enables surgeons to sense the pressure applied to body tissues when using compatible instruments. This adds tactile information to the visual guidance provided by the system, helping surgeons handle delicate tissues with greater awareness.
The platform also features advanced 3D imaging, upgraded instrument controls and a redesigned console aimed at improving surgeon comfort. With more than 150 technological enhancements, the system offers additional tools for monitoring tissue interaction and reviewing surgical video during procedures.
Despite these technological advances, the surgeon retains complete control throughout the operation. The robotic system assists with surgical movements but does not perform procedures independently.
Dr Preetha Reddy, Vice Chairperson of Apollo Hospitals, said, “Being amongst the first hospital in India to introduce the da Vinci 5 reflects Apollo’s continued commitment to advancing healthcare through sustained investment in medical technology. Its introduction at Bannerghatta Road builds on our experience in robotic-assisted surgery and marks an important milestone in expanding our surgical capabilities. Our priority is to ensure that such advancements are supported by clinical expertise and rigorous training, with patient needs guiding every decision.”
Dr Suneeta Reddy, Managing Director of Apollo Hospitals, highlighted the potential role of Force Feedback in supporting surgical precision and decision-making.
“The introduction of Da Vinci 5 at Apollo Hospitals, Bannerghatta Road, brings advanced capabilities such as Force Feedback, which gives surgeons better sense of the pressure applied while handling instruments. This can support greater awareness during delicate surgical manoeuvres and informed decision-making during surgery. As healthcare evolves, our focus is on integrating such innovations into clinical practice responsibly, ensuring our teams are equipped to use them effectively for patient care.”
The addition of Da Vinci 5 represents a further step in the hospital’s efforts to expand its robotic-assisted surgery programme. However, the suitability of robotic surgery will depend on the patient’s condition, the procedure required and the treating doctor’s clinical assessment.
The introduction of the Da Vinci 5 system at Apollo Hospitals, Bannerghatta Road, signals another development in India’s adoption of advanced surgical technology. Its impact will depend on how effectively the platform is integrated with clinical expertise, appropriate training and individualised patient care.
(Logo courtesy: apollohospitals.com)