Aizawl, February 24, 2026: In a landmark achievement for healthcare in Mizoram, Zoram Medical College and Hospital (ZMC&H), Falkawn, successfully performed the state's first-ever laparoscopic surgery for pancreatic cancer, marking a significant advancement in specialised medical care and surgical capability within the state.
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| Doctors at ZMC&H, Falkawn perform Mizoram’s first laparoscopic surgery for pancreatic cancer during a Gastroenterology workshop on February 24, 2026. (Image: DIPR Mizoram) |
The historic procedure was carried out during a Gastroenterology Academic Session and Surgical Workshop jointly organised by the Department of Surgery, ZMC&H, and the Association of Surgeons of Mizoram on February 24. The workshop brought together medical specialists, surgeons, and healthcare professionals from across the state to discuss the latest developments in gastrointestinal and hepatobiliary medicine.
The pancreatic cancer operation was conducted using minimally invasive laparoscopic techniques, a modern surgical approach that requires only small incisions and offers several advantages over conventional open surgery. These include reduced pain, shorter hospital stays, quicker recovery, and lower risk of complications. The successful completion of the procedure represents a major milestone for Mizoram’s healthcare sector and demonstrates the growing capability of local medical institutions to perform complex surgeries.
Specialist surgeons from Manipal Hospital, Salt Lake, participated in the workshop and led the pancreatic cancer surgery. Their collaboration with doctors at ZMC&H provided an important opportunity for knowledge exchange and hands-on training in advanced surgical techniques.
Another significant achievement during the programme was the introduction of Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS) services at a government hospital in Mizoram for the first time. In collaboration with Dr. Benjamine Khiangte, Medical Gastroenterologist at Gastro & Liver Clinic, EUS procedures were performed free of cost for eight patients who required advanced diagnostic evaluation.
Medical experts noted that EUS is a highly specialised diagnostic tool used to examine the digestive tract and surrounding organs, including the pancreas, liver, and bile ducts. The availability of this technology at ZMC&H is expected to improve early diagnosis and treatment planning for a range of gastrointestinal diseases.
Doctors at ZMC&H expressed optimism that the introduction of advanced equipment and specialised procedures will significantly reduce the need for patients to travel outside Mizoram for treatment. Previously, many patients requiring complex gastroenterological investigations and surgeries had to seek care in other states, resulting in considerable financial and emotional burdens.
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The workshop was attended by Prof. Zoramthara Zadeng, Director of ZMC&H; Prof. Lalnunmawii Sailo, Medical Superintendent; and Prof. C. Vanlalhlua, Sub-Dean (Hospital), who welcomed the visiting specialists and participants. Officials also highlighted that under the Mizoram Universal Health Care Scheme (MUHCS), patients were able to avail themselves of the services free of cost.
The event concluded with a Continuing Medical Education (CME) seminar focusing on recent advancements in gastroenterology, minimally invasive surgery, and the future of specialised healthcare in Mizoram. The session was chaired by Dr. Samuel Lalhruaizela, Associate Professor, while Prof. John Lalliandinga, Head of the Department of Surgery, delivered the vote of thanks.
Healthcare professionals described the successful surgery and introduction of EUS services as important milestones that reflect the steady progress of Mizoram’s medical infrastructure and its growing capacity to provide advanced healthcare services within the state.
