What Is the da Vinci 5?
The da Vinci 5 is a robotic surgical platform. It does not operate on its own. Dr. Gandhi is seated at the controls throughout your procedure, guiding every movement of the instruments in real time. The system translates his hand movements into smaller, more precise motions inside the body, through a few small incisions rather than one large cut.
Think of it as a highly refined extension of the surgeon's own hands and eyes, built to work through tiny openings with a level of control that is difficult to achieve with traditional instruments alone.
What's New in This Generation
The da Vinci 5 is the latest version of a system that has been used worldwide for robotic surgery for many years. Compared with earlier generations, it offers a few meaningful improvements, described here simply rather than technically.
A refined sense of touch
the system now relays forced feedback to the surgeon, helping Dr. Gandhi gauge tissue more naturally during delicate steps.
Sharper, clearer vision
an improved 3D view of the operating area gives greater depth and detail than earlier systems.
A smaller footprint in the operating room
the equipment is more compact, which helps the surgical team move efficiently during your procedure.
Built-in safeguards
additional software checks are designed to support safe, controlled movement throughout surgery.
How This Benefits You as a Patient
The technology itself is only useful if it translates into a better experience and outcome for you. In practical terms, robotic surgery with the da Vinci 5 generally means:
- Smaller incisions than traditional open surgery
- Less pain and bleeding during and after the procedure
- A shorter hospital stay for most patients
- A faster return to normal activity and work
- Greater surgical precision in anatomically complex or narrow spaces
The specific benefits for you will depend on your condition and the procedure being planned. Dr. Gandhi will discuss what to expect at your consultation.
Procedures Performed Using the da Vinci 5
Dr. Gandhi uses the da Vinci 5 for procedures including:
- Robotic gastrointestinal surgery
- Robotic hernia and abdominal wall reconstruction, for complex or recurrent hernias
To read about these in more detail, including what each procedure involves and what to expect, visit the Robotic Surgery page or the Hernia & Abdominal Wall Reconstruction page.
Is Robotic Surgery Safe?
Robotic surgery has been used safely across the world for close to two decades, and the da Vinci system in particular has a long, well-documented track record. The robot does not make any decisions on its own. Every movement is controlled by Dr. Gandhi, and the procedure follows the same careful planning, anaesthesia protocols, and surgical judgement as any other operation. The robotic element is simply the tool used to carry out the surgery with greater precision.
Why Dr. Jignesh Gandhi Uses the da Vinci 5
Early and ongoing training: Dr. Gandhi trained in robotic surgery at Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center in Buffalo, New York, and has continued to build on that experience over many years of practice.
A broad surgical caseload: he applies robotic techniques across gastrointestinal, hernia, thyroid, and thoracic procedures, rather than a single narrow use case.
A patient-first approach to technology: the da Vinci 5 is used where it genuinely benefits the patient, alongside laparoscopic and open techniques where those remain the better option.
Roswell Park Robotic Surgery Training
Dr. Gandhi completed the Fundamental Skills of Robotic Surgery (FSRS) curriculum at Roswell Park Cancer Institute, Buffalo, New York, in June 2015.
You can read more about Dr. Gandhi's training and experience on the About page.
Frequently Asked Questions
No. Dr. Gandhi controls every instrument movement throughout the procedure. The robotic system has no independent decision-making ability.
Robotic surgery is performed through a few small incisions, which generally heal with less visible scarring than a single large open-surgery incision.
This depends on your specific condition and medical history. Dr. Gandhi will assess your case at consultation and recommend the most appropriate approach, whether robotic, laparoscopic, or open surgery.
It is used for a defined range of procedures where it offers a clear benefit. Dr. Gandhi will advise whether it is suitable for your specific case.
Learn More About Your Procedure
Technology is only one part of your care. If you would like to understand more about a specific condition or procedure, or discuss whether robotic surgery with the da Vinci 5 is right for you, Dr. Jignesh Gandhi is available for consultation at his clinic in Ghatkopar East and Nanavati Max Hospital, Mumbai.
Trademark note: "da Vinci" and "da Vinci 5" are trademarks of Intuitive Surgical, Inc. This page describes the system factually, for patient information, and does not imply any partnership, sponsorship, or endorsement by Intuitive Surgical.