Pioneering Precision Surgery for a Rare Vascular Disorder
Gleneagles Hospital, Parel, Mumbai, has achieved a groundbreaking milestone by performing Western India’s first robotic surgery for Median Arcuate Ligament Syndrome (MALS)—a rare vascular disorder that affects only 1–2 individuals per 100,000 people. The intricate surgery was led by Dr. Jignesh Gandhi, Senior Laparoscopic and Robotic Surgeon, using the state-of-the-art Da Vinci Xi robotic system, marking a significant leap forward in minimally invasive care for rare and complex conditions.
A Long Journey to Diagnosis
As per the press release, for 60-year-old Mr. Mahendra Sawant from Chunnabhatti, Mumbai, eating even a small portion of food meant unbearable abdominal pain, fullness, and repeated vomiting. What should have been a basic act of nourishment became a daily ordeal. Despite visiting multiple hospitals, he received no definitive diagnosis. Routine medications only masked his symptoms temporarily, leaving him frustrated and isolated. His search for answers finally ended at Gleneagles Hospital, where advanced imaging revealed the true cause—Median Arcuate Ligament Syndrome, a rare condition in which a ligament compresses the celiac artery, restricting blood flow to abdominal organs.
Precision at Its Best: Robotic Surgery for MALS
Explaining the complexity of the case, Dr. Jignesh Gandhi said, “MALS surgeries are technically demanding because the affected artery lies very close to the aorta. Robotic technology provides unparalleled precision, magnified 3D vision, and enhanced control—allowing us to operate safely and effectively even in high-risk scenarios.”
Using robotic precision, the surgical team meticulously released the compressed artery, restoring normal blood flow. The advanced Da Vinci Xi system enabled minute, tremor-free movements, ensuring minimal trauma and faster recovery for the patient.
Faster, Safer, and Minimally Invasive Recovery
Unlike traditional MALS surgeries that typically last 2–3 hours and carry a high risk of bleeding, the Gleneagles team completed the procedure in just 48 minutes with negligible blood loss. Remarkably, the patient was walking, eating, and completely pain-free the next day—a testament to the precision and efficiency of robotic surgery.
Seamless Anesthesia Support
“This surgery demanded meticulous hemodynamic monitoring and perfect coordination between the surgical and anesthesia teams,” noted Dr. Anil Parakh, Head of Anesthesiology, Gleneagles Hospital, Mumbai. “Through detailed preoperative planning and advanced anesthesia techniques, we ensured the patient’s safety and stability throughout the procedure.”
Setting a Benchmark in Western India
Celebrating the achievement, Dr. Bipin Chevale, CEO, Gleneagles Hospital, Mumbai, said, “This accomplishment reflects our commitment to bringing cutting-edge surgical technology to our patients, even for the rarest and most complex conditions. The success of this robotic MALS surgery establishes a new benchmark for advanced surgical care in Western India.”
A New Lease on Life
Grateful and relieved, Mr. Mahendra Sawant shared, “For years, every meal meant pain and fear. I had almost given up hope of living normally again. After eating even small amounts, I suffered severe pain and vomiting for more than a year—it affected not just my body but also my mind. After this surgery, it feels like I’ve got my life back. I can now eat without pain and without fear. I am truly thankful to Dr. Jignesh Gandhi and the entire Gleneagles team for giving me a new beginning.”
This landmark surgery not only marks Western India’s first robotic intervention for MALS but also showcases how technology-driven precision, expert teamwork, and compassionate care can transform the future of complex surgical treatment in India.