The procedure connected Nopparat Rajathanee Hospital in Bangkok with West China Hospital in Chengdu, more than 2,000 kilometres away, reports the Bangkok Post.
A patient at Nopparat Rajathanee Hospital underwent robotic-assisted gallbladder removal while the Thai operating surgeon, Dr Pattharaporn Phetphosri, controlled the system remotely from Chengdu via a high-speed, real-time communications network.
Public Health Minister Pattana Promphat said the operation underscores Thailand’s commitment to integrating advanced technologies into its healthcare system.
He said tele-robotic surgery could improve efficiency, shorten waiting times and expand access to specialised care, allowing patients to receive treatment from leading experts without travelling abroad.
Gallbladder stone disease remains common in Thailand, and the successful use of robotic-assisted cholecystectomy could help address disparities in access to specialist treatment, particularly in remote or underserved areas, ministry officials said.
The operation was conducted under the Department of Medical Services, with on-site teams in Bangkok supporting the remote surgeon.