Surgical Oncology

Robotic Milestone in Advanced Cancer Surgery: Combined Robotic LAR with Portal Vein Ligation

Our surgical oncology team recently achieved another important milestone in minimally invasive cancer surgery by successfully performing a Robotic Low Anterior Resection (LAR) combined with robotic ligation of the right portal vein in a 50-year-old female diagnosed with rectal cancer and synchronous liver metastasis.

The patient presented with rectal adenocarcinoma along with metastatic disease involving the right lobe of the liver. Managing such complex cases requires meticulous planning to achieve complete oncological clearance while preserving adequate liver function.

After multidisciplinary tumor board discussion, a staged surgical strategy was planned with curative intent. In the first stage, a robotic low anterior resection was performed following total mesorectal excision principles to remove the rectal primary tumor. During the same sitting, robotic ligation of the right branch of the portal vein was carried out. This step is designed to induce hypertrophy of the future liver remnant, allowing safe completion of a planned right hepatectomy after approximately four weeks.

The use of robotic technology enabled precise pelvic dissection, superior visualization, and delicate hilar vascular control, allowing two major oncologic objectives to be achieved through a minimally invasive approach. The patient tolerated the procedure well and is recovering satisfactorily while awaiting the second-stage liver surgery.

This combined robotic approach highlights the evolving role of advanced minimally invasive surgery in complex gastrointestinal and hepatobiliary oncology. By integrating colorectal and liver strategies in a single operation, patients benefit from reduced surgical trauma, faster recovery, and preservation of curative treatment pathways.

The case reflects our institution’s continued commitment to innovation, multidisciplinary collaboration, and delivery of world-class cancer care using cutting-edge robotic surgical techniques.

Treatment By:
Dr. Asim Rizvi

A patient diagnosed with a tumour in the head of the pancreas presented for specialised evaluation and management. Given the complexity of the condition, a detailed clinical assessment and surgical planning were undertaken by the expert team.

The patient was planned for a Robotic Pancreaticoduodenectomy (Whipple’s Procedure), a highly specialised surgery used to treat tumours in this region. The procedure was performed under the expertise of Dr. Syed Asim Rizvi, Principal Director – Surgical Oncology and Robotic Surgery, along with his team, using advanced robotic surgical technology.

The robotic approach provided enhanced precision and superior visualisation, enabling meticulous removal of the tumour while preserving surrounding structures. This minimally invasive technique also helped reduce intraoperative blood loss and supported a more controlled surgical environment.

The patient demonstrated a smooth postoperative recovery with reduced pain, early mobilisation, and overall improved comfort. He was discharged in stable condition.

This case highlights the role of advanced robotic surgery in managing complex pancreatic tumours, combining surgical expertise with precision technology to achieve optimal patient outcomes.

Treatment By:
Dr. Asim Rizvi

A 39-year-old patient from Nairobi presented with symptoms of obstructive jaundice and required urgent evaluation. A comprehensive diagnostic workup, including advanced imaging and endoscopic assessment, confirmed the diagnosis of pancreatic cancer.

The clinical team first focused on stabilising the patient and relieving the obstruction. A therapeutic endoscopic procedure with stenting was performed, leading to improvement in symptoms and liver function. Once optimised, the patient was carefully planned for definitive surgical management.

The surgery was performed under the expertise of Dr. Syed Asim Rizvi, Principal Director – Surgical Oncology and Robotic Surgery, using advanced robotic surgical technology. This approach enabled enhanced precision, minimal blood loss, and a minimally invasive pathway to treatment.

The patient showed a smooth postoperative recovery, with early initiation of oral intake, timely mobilisation, and reduced discomfort. He was discharged in stable condition within a week of the procedure.

This case highlights the importance of timely diagnosis, structured clinical management, and the role of advanced robotic surgery in improving outcomes for complex pancreatic cancer cases.

Treatment By:
Dr. Asim Rizvi