Rajavithi Hospital Completes Robot Assisted Heart Surgery

Rajavithi Hospital has successfully carried out the first two robot-assisted heart surgeries within Thailand’s Public Health Ministry system, marking a significant step in advancing the country’s medical capabilities. Both operations were completed without complications, with patients experiencing smaller incisions and faster recovery times. Officials say the milestone will help raise treatment standards and expand access to specialised care.

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Dr Nutthapong Wongwiwat, director-general of the Department of Medical Services, said the initiative forms part of a broader policy to promote high-value medical services as a new economic driver. The programme aims to improve surgical precision, reduce complications and strengthen Thailand’s position as a regional medical hub. The achievement represents the first successful use of robotic technology for cardiac surgery within the ministry’s network.

The hospital built on earlier experience with robot-assisted lung surgery between 2023 and 2025, during which more than 60 procedures were completed safely. Dr Wittawat Pibul, head of cardiac and thoracic surgery, said this foundation ensured readiness in personnel, systems and technical expertise. Additional support came from Assistant Professor Cheng-Hon Yap, a cardiac surgeon from University Hospital Geelong in Australia, who advised on minimally invasive and robotic techniques.

The two patients treated included one with a congenital atrial septal defect and another with severe mitral valve stenosis. Both procedures were carried out successfully following extensive preparation and team training. The patients were discharged within two days and four days respectively, with no post-operative complications reported.

Surgeons Dr Wiput Kojaranjit and Dr Kasisak Luangpathomaram said robotic technology allows operations to be performed through very small incisions with high precision. This reduces tissue damage, limits blood loss and enables faster recovery compared with conventional surgery. The success also reflected close coordination among surgeons, anaesthetists, nurses and multidisciplinary teams involved in patient care.

Officials said the development is not only about introducing new technology but also about establishing a national centre of excellence in robotic heart surgery. The long-term goal is to widen access to advanced treatment while creating a training hub for medical personnel, particularly in regional hospitals. This could reduce reliance on overseas training as more facilities develop robotic capabilities.

The Nation reported that Rajavithi Hospital plans to expand the use of robotic surgery in the next phase, offering it as an additional option for patients requiring heart procedures. With many patients still waiting for surgery, the hospital aims to increase capacity and improve outcomes through wider adoption of the technology.

Pictures courtesy of The Nation

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Adapted by ASEAN Now Nation 5 Apr 2026