The National Institute of Neoplastic Diseases (INEN) of the Ministry of Health marked Peruvian Surgery Day by highlighting advances in cancer treatment through the adoption of robotic and minimally invasive surgical techniques, according to an April 5 statement.
These developments are part of a sustained process involving technological innovation, medical expertise, and a commitment to patient care. The use of robotics has enabled procedures with smaller incisions, greater precision in tumor removal, reduced postoperative pain, lower risk of complications, and faster recovery for patients.
Francisco Berrospi Espinoza, head of INEN, said these improvements are driven by a patient-centered approach. “Today surgery not only seeks to be effective but also safer, less invasive and focused on the comprehensive recovery of the patient,” Berrospi Espinoza said. He added that these achievements have been made possible thanks to support from the state and encouragement from the Ministry of Health.
INEN performs about 12,000 surgeries each year. Since introducing robotic surgery in December 2024, it has conducted 657 interventions across specialties such as abdominal surgery, urology, gynecology and thoracic procedures. All patients undergoing these operations are covered by Comprehensive Health Insurance (SIS), allowing people with limited resources access to complex surgeries within the public health system. The institute’s team includes highly specialized oncological surgeons trained both domestically and abroad—including training on the da Vinci robotic system.
Carlos Luque Vásquez, director of INEN’s Department of Surgery, said that surgery remains fundamental in cancer treatment: “The goal is to achieve maximum precision in every intervention while reducing harm and promoting recovery. Even in complex cases surgery plays a key role,” Luque Vásquez said.
Improvements also include streamlined surgical management through initiatives like the Elective Surgery Management Unit—which has reduced waiting times—and enhanced postoperative safety via dedicated intensive care units for surgical patients. On Peruvian Surgery Day INEN reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening oncological surgical care through ongoing innovation and specialist training.
