RUFCON 2025 focuses on robotic and AI integration in urologic surgery at AIIMS Jodhpur

The Department of Urology at AIIMS Jodhpur hosted the seventh edition of RUFCON, the annual conference of the Robotic Urology Forum (RUF), in collaboration with the Royal Urology Society (RUS). Held in partnership with robotic-assisted surgery technology providers including Intuitive, RUFCON 2025 focused on the evolving role of robotics and artificial intelligence in precision urologic procedures. The event was inaugurated by P.P. Chaudhary, Member of Parliament from Pali, in the presence of Dr. G.D. Puri, Executive Director, AIIMS Jodhpur.

Centred on the theme ‘Advancing Precision in Urologic Surgery through Robotics and AI,’ the conference featured more than 25 live and semi-live surgeries, along with panel discussions and skill-building sessions. The surgical procedures demonstrated included techniques in prostate and kidney surgery, as well as transplant methods. Dedicated sessions explored topics such as AI-assisted surgical planning and telesurgery, while a parallel programme for nurses and technicians focused on robotic competencies and case-based challenges.

“RUFCON continues to serve as an important platform for peer learning, mentorship, and ecosystem-building. It supports not just clinical education but also dialogue around access, innovation, research, and policy,” said Dr. T.B. Yuvaraja, Chairman of the Robotic Urology Forum.

Reflecting on the structure and outcomes of the event, Dr. Gautam Ram Choudhary, Organising Secretary of RUFCON 2025 and Uro-Oncology and Robotic Surgeon at AIIMS Jodhpur, said, “This year’s agenda was designed to go beyond showcasing procedures. We wanted to highlight real-world challenges, emerging technologies, and the growing need for structured training. From residents to seasoned surgeons, every participant engaged deeply, which is essential for long-term progress. What stood out was the diversity of perspectives, as institutions at different stages of robotic adoption came together to share experiences and learn from one another. This conference provided a common platform for dialogue, hands-on learning, and collaboration that can help drive safe, consistent adoption of robotic-assisted surgery across all settings.”

Robotic-assisted surgery (RAS), using systems such as da Vinci, is being increasingly adopted in India, particularly for high-precision urologic procedures including prostatectomy, partial nephrectomy, and ureteric reconstruction. The adoption is supported by clinical data showing improved outcomes and by increased institutional investment in surgical technology and training.

“We are pleased to collaborate with the Robotic Urology Forum (RUF) to support the broader goal of expanding access to robotic-assisted surgery in India,” said Rohitt Mahajan, Vice President & General Manager, Intuitive India. “India’s surgical ecosystem is undergoing rapid transformation, with technologies like robotic-assisted surgery playing an increasingly important role in improving clinical outcomes, particularly in specialties such as urology. This progress is driven not only by the capabilities of the technology, but also by the passion and commitment of surgeons across the country who are eager to bring advanced solutions to their patients. Initiatives like this create valuable opportunities for healthcare providers to engage with innovation, exchange insights, and contribute to the ongoing evolution of surgical care in India.”

RUFCON remains a national-level platform for dialogue and skill development in robotic-assisted urologic surgery. Now in its seventh edition, the event brings together surgeons, researchers, support teams, and industry partners to advance clinical practices and knowledge-sharing in the field.