Islamabad Hosts Pakistan’s First Robotic Gallbladder Surgery Through Telesurgery
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Published: October 31, 2026 | 10:55 PM
SZABMU Registrar, Prof. Dr. Syed Tanseer Asghar, operated remotely from a healthcare conference while a surgical team, led by Dr. Sana Sharafat Ali, performed the procedure at Kulsum International Hospital.
ISLAMABAD (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 31st Oct, 2026) Islamabad has witnessed its first robotic cholecystectomy performed through telesurgery, marking a significant development in Pakistan’s healthcare sector.
Prof. Dr. Syed Tanseer Asghar, Registrar of Shaheed Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto Medical University (SZABMU) and a robotic surgeon, operated the robotic surgical console from the International Conference on Future of Healthcare (FHCC 2026).
The patient was at Kulsum International Hospital, where a surgical team, under Dr. Sana Sharafat Ali, consultant robotic and vascular surgeon, carried out the procedure. Dr. Ali played a crucial role as the patient-side robotic surgeon, managing the robotic patient cart and providing on-site surgical support.
The operation successfully demonstrated the potential of remote console operation coordinated with clinicians on-site, highlighting the importance of clinical teamwork and on-site support in telesurgery.
SZABMU Vice Chancellor, Prof. Dr. Tanwir Khaliq, a surgeon himself, expressed his pride in this achievement, stating:
"This procedure is a testament to SZABMU’s commitment to developing expertise in advanced medical technologies. It showcases how robotic technology, reliable connectivity, and close coordination can expand specialist care possibilities. As we advance these capabilities, patient safety, professional training, and responsible technology use must remain paramount."
He further announced the university’s plan to establish its first Robotic and Artificial Intelligence Health Centre, which will support the development and training in robotic and AI healthcare applications.
This achievement was presented at FHCC 2026, offering a practical demonstration of telesurgery to the healthcare community. It also highlights the growing role of Pakistani surgeons in adopting and advancing sophisticated medical technologies.
Telesurgery holds promise for connecting specialist expertise with patients in areas with limited access to certain surgical skills, but its broader use depends on reliable technology and appropriate clinical protocols.