After 18-Month Cancer Battle, Australian Patient Travels to India for Specialised Robotic Rectal Cancer Surgery

2026-07-16 06:34:40 Health and Fitness

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Delhi/NCR, 24th June, 2026: In a significant advancement in colorectal cancer care, Fortis Hospital Manesar successfully treated a 45-year-old Australian patient diagnosed with early-stage rectal cancer using advanced Robotic Transanal Minimally Invasive Surgery (TAMIS), a highly specialised organ-preserving procedure that offers select patients an alternative to conventional major surgery. The procedure was performed by a multidisciplinary team led by Dr. Vinay Samuel Gaikwad, Senior Director – Surgical Oncology, Fortis Hospital Manesar and the patient was discharged in a stable condition within two days.

Patient Samy had been battling rectal cancer for the last 18 months and had undergone chemotherapy and radiation therapy in Australia. The tumour had initially shrunk, following treatment but later showed signs of recurrence. Upon consulting cancer surgeons in Australia, the patient was advised to undergo surgery that would likely require abdominal incisions and a temporary stoma bag during recovery for waste collection. As this advanced procedure was not available in Australia, he travelled to India and consulted the colorectal cancer team at Fortis Hospital Manesar.

Following a comprehensive evaluation, the team determined that he was an ideal candidate for Robotic TAMIS, an advanced minimally invasive procedure performed through the natural anal opening. The surgery enabled complete removal of the tumour without abdominal cuts, external scars, or the need for a temporary stoma, resulting in faster recovery and preservation of normal
bowel function.Giving details of the case, Dr. Vinay Samuel Gaikwad, Senior Director, Surgical Oncology, Fortis Hospital Manesar said, “The patient had recurrent early-stage rectal cancer and was facing a surgery that would typically require abdominal incisions and a temporary stoma. After careful evaluation, we identified him as an ideal candidate for Robotic TAMIS, which enabled us to remove the tumour with exceptional precision through a minimally invasive approach, avoiding abdominal cuts and the need for an external bag. He recovered well and was discharged within two days. This case demonstrates how advanced robotic techniques can help preserve quality of life while delivering excellent clinical outcomes for carefully selected patients.”

Patient Samy said “When I was told in Australia that I would need major surgery and a temporary external bag, it was incredibly daunting. Facing rectal cancer for over a year is exhausting enough, but the thought of that specific recovery felt like a massive setback to my quality of life. Finding Dr. Gaikwad and the team at Fortis Manesar changed everything. To undergo this advanced robotic surgery, have the tumor completely removed without a single cut on my abdomen, and be discharged in just two days feels like a miracle. I am returning home to Australia cancer-free, without a bag, and with my normal life intact. I can’t thank the doctors and staff here enough for giving me my life back.”

Mr. Indrajeet Kumar Singh, Facility Director, Fortis Hospital Manesar said, “This successful treatment
reflects Fortis Hospital Manesar’s commitment to bringing world-class, technology-driven healthcare
solutions to patients from across India and around the globe. As healthcare technology continues to evolve, our focus remains on adopting cutting-edge technologies and evidence-based practices that enhance patient outcomes and redefine standards of care in complex cancer treatment.”

About Fortis Healthcare Limited

Fortis Healthcare Limited is a leading integrated healthcare delivery service provider in India. The healthcare verticals of the company primarily comprise hospitals, diagnostics, and day care specialty facilities. Currently, the company operates 36 healthcare facilities (including JVs and O&M facilities) across 12 states and union territories. The Company’s network comprises over 6,000 operational beds (including O&M beds) and 400 diagnostics labs.

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