KARACHI: Lyari General Hospital has marked a historic breakthrough in Pakistan’s public healthcare sector with the inauguration of a Robotic Tele-Surgery Center of Excellence and Training Institute, making advanced surgical procedures possible across international distances.
The center, equipped with the MicroPort Tomai Robotic Tele-Surgery System, was formally inaugurated on Monday by Sindh Provincial Minister for Health Dr Azra Fazal Pechuho. Secretary Health Sindh Rehan Baloch, Principal Lyari General Hospital Professor Dr Anjum Rahman, senior doctors, surgeons, faculty members, and media representatives were present at the ceremony.
On the occasion, a team of doctors successfully conducted a live robotic tele-surgery from Jaber Al-Ahmad Hospital in Kuwait through the Tomai Robotic Tele-Surgery System, demonstrating real-time global surgical connectivity and advanced medical technology.
Speaking to the media, Dr Azra Fazal Pechuho and Secretary Health Rehan Baloch said that the launch of robotic tele-surgery reflects the Sindh Government’s commitment to introducing modern medical facilities in public hospitals, ensuring quality healthcare access for underserved communities. They added that Lyari is rapidly emerging as a center for education, research, and advanced medical treatment.
The speakers also highlighted the role of Principal and Chairperson Professor Dr Anjum Rahman in strengthening Lyari General Hospital through institutional leadership, surgical excellence, and medical education. The services of Dr Sehr Fatima and other medical professionals were also appreciated for their dedication to patient care.
Chief Executive Officer of Popular International, Iqbal Baloch, said robotic tele-surgery represents a transformational shift in public healthcare, allowing expert surgeons to operate across borders while reducing travel, costs, and treatment delays. He added that the Tomai system offers high precision, minimal incisions, enhanced patient safety, and advanced training opportunities for local surgeons.
Director Popular International Abdul Rehman stated that providing the Tomai Robotic System on a placement basis demonstrates a strong commitment to strengthening public sector healthcare. He said the Sindh Government’s procurement of equipment and consumables will ensure sustainability and long-term success of the initiative.
Regional Director MicroPort, Adnan Aleem, said tele-surgery is the future of global medical collaboration, removing geographical barriers to deliver world-class surgical expertise. He added that the Tomai Robotic Tele-Surgery System has been developed with advanced safety features, stable connectivity, and exceptional precision.
With the establishment of the Robotic Tele-Surgery Center of Excellence and Training Institute, Lyari General Hospital has been positioned as a regional hub for advanced treatment, surgical training, and medical education, reaffirming its commitment to modern healthcare delivery and international collaboration.
