Seventeen-year-old international tennis player Daksh Kukreti from Ahmedabad returned to the court just four weeks after undergoing robotic-assisted hernia surgery. His condition, caused by abdominal wall strain, typically sidelines athletes for months. Coinciding with National Sports Day, Daksh’s recovery highlights how modern surgical technology and expert care are enabling young athletes to stay in the game without long breaks.
How Robotics Is Transforming Sports Surgery
Robotic-assisted hernia surgery, powered by advanced systems like the da Vinci platform, allows surgeons to perform procedures with minimal incisions, reduced tissue trauma, and greater precision. Compared to traditional methods, it ensures quicker rehabilitation and safer outcomes. For high-performance athletes, this technology means minimal disruption to training schedules and an early return to competition.
Expert Surgical Care in India
As per the press release, the procedure was performed by Dr. Vishal Soni, a leading robotic hernia surgeon from Gujarat. He emphasized that as robotics becomes more widely adopted in India, it is setting a new benchmark for hernia management. He explained, “For athletes, open surgery is rarely ideal. Robotic-assisted repair offers unmatched accuracy, minimal pain, and faster rehabilitation. In Daksh’s case, the goal was to deliver a strong, long-lasting, and safe repair while ensuring his career remained uninterrupted.”
Athlete’s Perspective on Recovery
Daksh, who has represented India in numerous international tournaments, called his return to the court “incredible.” He shared, “I was worried about being away for months, but the robotic surgery and the care from Dr. Soni made my recovery much faster than expected. Getting back to training feels amazing, especially on National Sports Day, which reminds us to stay active and committed to our goals. I am also deeply grateful to my physio, coach, and support team for helping me regain competitive form so quickly.”
Family’s Relief and Gratitude
His father, Mr. Pankaj Kukreti, recalled the family’s initial anxiety. “We were concerned about Daksh undergoing surgery at such a young age. However, Dr. Soni’s clear guidance and the option of advanced robotic-assisted surgery reassured us. Within weeks, he was back on the court, training without pain, and preparing for international competition. We are thankful that such world-class expertise is available in India.”
A Game-Changer for Indian Sports Medicine
According to Dr. Soni, athletes require robust surgical repairs that can withstand intense strain in a short time frame, leaving no margin for error. He noted, “Stories like Daksh’s prove how robotic surgery can safeguard the future of India’s emerging sports talent. It is encouraging that India now has both advanced technology and skilled surgeons, so athletes no longer need to travel abroad for world-class care.”
Future of Robotic Surgery in Sports
Robotic-assisted interventions are rapidly gaining ground in India, especially among young athletes balancing competitive careers with the need for effective medical management. Experts believe that widespread adoption of such technologies will redefine recovery standards, helping athletes maintain peak performance while reducing the risk of long-term disruptions due to injuries.