Robotic surgeries begin at PKLI

Up to 80% patients receive free treatment; 500 surgerical procedures performed last year

ISLAMABAD:

Marking a new phase in medical innovation, Chairman of the Board of Directors and Chief Executive Officer of the Pakistan Kidney & Liver Institute and Research Centre (PKLI), Dr Saeed Akhtar, on Sunday announced the introduction of robotic surgeries for kidney, liver and other complex procedures at the institute.

He noted that between 50 and 80 per cent of patients are currently receiving free, technology-driven treatment.

Speaking in a PTV programme, Dr Akhtar said that with the support of the Punjab government, PKLI has emerged as a strong medical institution with significant potential for collaboration in public health.

Over the years, the institute has successfully carried out around 1,200 kidney transplants and 1,000 liver transplants. In addition, about 500 robotic surgeries were performed last year alone.

Many of these treatments were provided free of charge or at highly subsidised rates, with the institute spending billions of rupees to support patient care.

Dr Akhtar said PKLI continues to serve as a beacon of hope for patients by delivering high-quality healthcare services in the region while setting new benchmarks in medical innovation and patient care.

He emphasised that patients from all socio-economic backgrounds receive the same standard of world-class treatment, reflecting the institute's commitment to equality and excellence in healthcare.

He further noted that PKLI's research and drug discovery departments are rapidly strengthening, supported by advanced technology and high-quality resources aimed at expanding the frontiers of medical science.

The institute is also training the next generation of surgeons, with more than 100 young professionals currently undergoing intensive training to help ensure a skilled and self-sustaining medical workforce in the future.

Dr Akhtar added that nearly 80 per cent of patients at PKLI receive free treatment, underscoring the institute's commitment to providing accessible and high-quality healthcare for all.

He said the institute is increasingly competing at the global level through advanced diagnostic facilities, modern radiology centres and state-of-the-art transplant services.

With cutting-edge technology, strong research capabilities and comprehensive training programmes, PKLI continues to transform healthcare in the region, offering hope and world-class treatment to patients from all walks of life