Pakistan’s First Robotic Whipple Surgery Successfully Performed at PKLI Lahore

Pakistan’s First Robotic Whipple Surgery has been successfully performed at the Pakistan Kidney and Liver Institute and Research Centre (PKLI&RC) in Lahore. The complex operation marks a major advancement in the country’s ability to treat pancreatic and bile duct cancers using modern robotic technology.

The procedure was carried out by surgeons at PKLI, a leading public-sector healthcare institution in Punjab. Officials confirmed the achievement on Sunday, calling it an important milestone for cancer and liver treatment in Pakistan. The development means patients with complicated pancreatic diseases can now receive advanced surgical care within the country.

The Whipple procedure, medically known as pancreaticoduodenectomy, is considered one of the most difficult abdominal surgeries. It is commonly used to treat cancers of the pancreas, bile duct, and nearby organs. During the operation, surgeons remove the head of the pancreas along with parts of the small intestine and bile duct, and sometimes a portion of the stomach, before reconstructing the digestive system.

In the past, this surgery required large incisions and involved long recovery periods. However, robotic technology allows doctors to perform the operation through small cuts using robotic arms. These arms are controlled by surgeons through a special console, providing high-definition 3D views and precise movements. This approach helps reduce blood loss, complications, and recovery time.

Dean of PKLI&RC, Dr Faisal Saud Dar, said the institute has now completed around 500 robotic surgeries in different medical fields. He noted that this progress reflects the growing strength of robotic surgical services in Pakistan. He added that advanced pancreatic and liver procedures can now be performed safely at local hospitals, reducing the need for patients to travel abroad.

Along with this breakthrough, PKLI also performed the country’s first robotic right hemi-hepatectomy. This procedure involves removing the right side of the liver and is usually done to treat liver tumours or severe liver disease.

Dr Dar said the Punjab government’s continued support has played an important role in improving PKLI’s facilities and technology. He added that the government is considering using PKLI’s management model in future healthcare projects to improve service quality and transparency.

The achievement came during the PKLI International Symposium 2026 held in Lahore on February 13 and 14. The event attracted more than 3,000 participants, including international experts and healthcare professionals. Hundreds of doctors also attended hands-on workshops to learn modern robotic surgical techniques.

The successful introduction of robotic procedures shows Pakistan’s growing capacity in advanced medical care. It also offers new hope to cancer patients seeking safer and more effective treatment options within the country.