Safdarjung Hospital removes world’s largest adrenal tumour via robotic surgery 

Safdarjung Hospital doctors remove world's largest adrenal tumour robotically, highlighting benefits of minimally invasive surgery.

In a landmark surgical feat, doctors at Safdarjung Hospital have successfully removed what is being claimed as the world’s largest adrenal tumour ever extracted using robotic technology. The tumour, measuring 18.2 x 13.5 cm, was removed from a 36-year-old woman through a complex, minimally invasive procedure.

“This is the largest ever adrenal tumour in the world to have been removed robotically in a minimally invasive fashion,” Dr. Sandeep Bansal, Medical Superintendent of Safdarjung Hospital, said on Saturday (April 26, 2025).

The tumour posed significant challenges due to its size and the fact that it was adherent to three critical anatomical structures - the Inferior Vena Cava, liver, and right kidney. “Its proximity and adherence to vital organs made the surgery particularly intricate,” the surgical team said.

The procedure was performed using the Da Vinci surgical robot, which provides a three-dimensional view and enhanced precision through its advanced robotic arms. “The technology allows for greater control and accuracy, especially in areas where conventional laparoscopic access is limited,” doctors explained.

The surgery lasted over three hours, and the tumour was removed without any complications. The patient had an uneventful recovery and was discharged three days after the operation.

Doctors highlighted the advantages of robotic surgery, which include smaller incisions, reduced post-operative pain, faster recovery, and quicker return to normal activities. By contrast, an open procedure for a tumour of this size would have required an incision of over 20 cm and significantly longer recovery time.