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On International Women’s Day, women surgeons highlighted their increasing presence in the male-dominated field of robotics, particularly in gynecology, signaling a significant shift in the surgical landscape.
Traditionally, surgery has been perceived as a male-dominated domain, but more women are now making their mark in the field, especially in robotic technology. Rooma Sinha, President of the AGRS Association of Gynecological Robotic Surgeons of India and Professor of Gynecology at Apollo Hospitals, noted the rising number of women entering robotic surgery.
“While more women are entering surgical branches, there is a dire need to keep pace. And it is especially important for women because surgery has long been perceived as an ‘only boys club’,” remarked Dr. Shabnam Bashir, Senior Consultant in Breast & Colorectal Cancer Surgeries at Ujala Cygnus Superspeciality and Mubarak Hospital in Srinagar, Kashmir.
Despite the progress, experts emphasized the importance of upskilling for women surgeons, particularly in the rapidly advancing field of robotics. Dr. Rooma highlighted challenges such as the lack of robotic infrastructure and mentors for women surgeons, underscoring the need for women mentors to encourage and guide younger generations.
The shortage of women surgeons not only impacts the profession but also affects patient care. Studies have shown that women surgeons are often more meticulous and result in fewer complications. Robotic surgery, with its minimal invasiveness and quicker recovery times, has revolutionized healthcare for women patients.
“Robotic surgery has allowed working women to get back to their work faster, women who are pillars at their home to get to the same level of health before surgery much quicker,” said Anupama Rajan Babu, Consultant Gynecologic Oncologist at James Cook University Hospital, Middlesbrough, UK.
Women surgeons are not only breaking gender norms but also transforming patient care through their expertise in robotics, ensuring safer surgeries and faster recoveries. As they continue to make strides in the field, their impact on healthcare and gender equality remains profound.
