Patna: The department of neurosurgery at AIIMS-Patna has developed a patented tubular brain retractor designed to make deep-seated brain surgeries safer, minimal invasive, and highly affordable.
The innovative device, which can function as both a floating and a fixed tubular retractor depending on the complexity of the operation, can be seamlessly integrated with state-of-the-art neuronavigation and robotic platforms. This enables neurosurgeons to achieve a precision of 1-2 mm, a critical factor when navigating delicate and complex brain structures.
The govt of India has granted a patent for the indigenous innovation to Dr Vikas Chandra Jha, professor and HoD of neurosurgery at AIIMS-Patna, who conceived and spearheaded the multidisciplinary project. Reflecting its global scientific credibility, the technical design and clinical performance of the device have also been published in the internationally reputed journal Neurosurgical Review.
As per the press release shared by AIIMS-Patna on Friday, unlike conventional open brain surgery that demands large cranial openings and extensive manipulation of normal brain matter, this newly developed retractor allows specialists to navigate to deep lesions through an exceptionally narrow surgical corridor. Experts point out that this minimal-contact approach directly translates into smaller surgical wounds, significantly reduced blood loss, diminished risk of postoperative neurological deficits, and faster patient recovery leading to shorter hospital stays.
The press release further stated that the device is slated to drastically lower treatment expenses. The manufacturing cost of this indigenous retractor is estimated to be 80-90% lower than its heavily imported counterparts. Consequently, it is expected to slash the overall expenditure of minimally invasive brain surgeries by 30-40%, making advanced neurosurgical treatment widely accessible to economically weaker sections.
Congratulating the team which included key contributions from neurosurgeons Dr Nitish, Dr Vivek Saran Sinha, Dr Gaurav, Dr Rahul, Dr Sangam, and the department of anaesthesiology—the director of AIIMS-Patna reiterated the institute’s commitment to pioneering world-class, affordable medical technologies aimed at reducing patient risk and cutting down healthcare burdens across the country.
