Description

Gallbladder surgery, particularly laparoscopic cholecystectomy, has undergone a remarkable transformation over the past few decades, evolving from invasive open procedures to minimally invasive techniques that prioritize patient safety, recovery, and outcomes. At the forefront of this evolution stands Dr. Arun Prasad, a globally renowned surgical gastroenterologist whose pioneering contributions have redefined the landscape of gallbladder surgery. As a key speaker at the World Association of Laparoscopic Surgeons (WALS) 2025 conference, held on February 28, 2025, Dr. Prasad shared groundbreaking insights drawn from his 35 years of experience, offering a visionary perspective on the past, present, and future of gallbladder surgery. This article delves into his trailblazing journey, his innovative techniques, and the profound impact of his work as unveiled at WALS 2025. A Pioneer in Laparoscopic Surgery Dr. Arun Prasad’s journey in laparoscopic surgery began in 1990, when he performed his first laparoscopic cholecystectomy as a junior surgeon in Nottingham, UK. This marked the beginning of a career that would see him become one of the earliest adopters and innovators of minimally invasive techniques. Trained at prestigious institutions like the Armed Forces Medical College in Pune and Maulana Azad Medical College in New Delhi, Dr. Prasad honed his skills further in the UK, earning his FRCS in 1990. During his time at Charing Cross Medical School in London, he was part of the team that introduced laparoscopic surgery, laying the groundwork for its global adoption. Upon returning to India in 1996, Dr. Prasad joined Apollo Hospitals in New Delhi as one of its youngest senior consultants. Over the years, he has performed over 6,000 laparoscopic cholecystectomies with an impeccable record of zero bile duct injuries—an extraordinary feat that underscores his expertise and precision. His work has not only elevated the standard of care in India but has also earned him international recognition, including the prestigious FACS (Fellow of the American College of Surgeons) award in 2019. Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy: Revolutionizing Gallbladder Surgery Gallbladder surgery, traditionally performed through open cholecystectomy, involved large incisions, significant trauma to surrounding tissues, and prolonged recovery times. The advent of laparoscopic techniques in the late 20th century changed this paradigm, and Dr. Prasad was among the first to champion this revolution. At WALS 2025, he highlighted how laparoscopic cholecystectomy—using small incisions and a camera-guided approach—reduces postoperative pain, minimizes scarring, and allows patients to return to normal activities within days rather than weeks. One of Dr. Prasad’s landmark contributions, presented in 1994, was his demonstration of the feasibility and safety of same-day discharge following laparoscopic gallbladder surgery. This was one of the earliest series of its kind globally, challenging conventional norms and proving that minimally invasive techniques could drastically improve patient outcomes. His insights at WALS 2025 emphasized how this approach has since become a gold standard, reflecting his foresight and influence on modern surgical practice. Innovations Beyond the Basics Dr. Prasad’s contributions extend far beyond standard laparoscopic cholecystectomy. At WALS 2025, he unveiled his pioneering work in advanced techniques, including single-incision laparoscopic surgery (SILS) and robotic-assisted gallbladder surgery. SILS, which he began performing in 2010, involves removing the gallbladder through a single small incision, typically at the navel, leaving virtually no visible scar. This technique, while technically demanding, showcases his commitment to pushing the boundaries of minimally invasive surgery for enhanced cosmetic and functional outcomes. Robotic surgery, another area of Dr. Prasad’s expertise, was a focal point of his WALS 2025 presentation. With over 400 robotic cases under his belt, he has pioneered the use of robotic systems in complex gastrointestinal surgeries, including gallbladder procedures. The precision and dexterity offered by robotic platforms allow for greater control in challenging cases, such as those involving severe inflammation or anatomical anomalies. Dr. Prasad shared how these advancements are poised to redefine gallbladder surgery, particularly for high-risk patients. Groundbreaking Firsts in Gallbladder Surgery Dr. Prasad’s career is marked by several world-firsts, many of which were highlighted at WALS 2025. One of his most notable achievements is the world’s first laparoscopic operation for a cholecysto-colic fistula—a rare condition where the gallbladder forms an abnormal connection with the colon. Performed in 1994 at Bedford Hospital, UK, this procedure was documented in eminent medical journals and remains a testament to his innovative problem-solving skills. At WALS, he discussed how this surgery required adapting laparoscopic techniques to an unprecedented challenge, setting a precedent for managing complex gallbladder pathology. Another remarkable milestone is his record of performing a laparoscopic cholecystectomy on a 100-year-old patient—an achievement that underscores the safety and versatility of his approach, even in elderly populations with comorbidities. These cases, presented with detailed insights at WALS 2025, illustrate how Dr. Prasad has consistently expanded the scope of who can benefit from minimally invasive gallbladder surgery. Insights from WALS 2025: The Future of Gallbladder Surgery At the WALS 2025 conference, Dr. Prasad’s keynote address offered a forward-looking vision for gallbladder surgery. He emphasized the integration of cutting-edge technologies, such as artificial intelligence (AI) and augmented reality (AR), to enhance surgical precision and decision-making. AI, he noted, could analyze preoperative imaging to predict complications, while AR could provide real-time overlays of anatomical structures during surgery—tools that could further reduce risks like bile duct injury, a rare but serious complication. Conclusion: A Trailblazer’s Legacy Dr. Arun Prasad’s insights from WALS 2025 illuminate the remarkable evolution of gallbladder surgery and his central role in driving it forward. From his early days as a laparoscopic pioneer in the UK to his current status as a global leader in minimally invasive and robotic surgery, he has consistently pushed the envelope, delivering better outcomes for patients and inspiring the surgical community. His presentation at WALS 2025 not only celebrated his past achievements but also charted a bold path for the future—one where technology, innovation, and compassionate care converge to transform lives. As gallbladder surgery continues to evolve, Dr. Prasad’s legacy as a pioneer, educator, and innovator will endure, ensuring that his groundbreaking contributions remain a cornerstone of surgical excellence. For attendees of WALS 2025 and surgeons worldwide, his message was clear: the journey of unveiling new possibilities in gallbladder surgery is far from over, and the best is yet to come.