News

CMU Faculty of Medicine Performs Thailand and Southeast Asia’s First Lung Surgery Using Hugo? Robotic-Assisted Surgery System

4 November 2026
Corporate Communication and Alumni Relations Center (CCARC)
The Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, successfully performed Thailand and Southeast Asia’s first lung surgery using the Hugo? Robotic-Assisted Surgery (RAS) system on November 2, 2026. This milestone marks an important advancement in thoracic surgery and the application of advanced medical technology in patient care.

The procedure was performed by the Thoracic Surgery Unit, Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, CMU, led by Asst. Prof. Dr. Sophon Sivachati, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Apichart Tantraworasil, and Dr. Atirut Supphiphiphat, together with Dr. Phadungkiet Tangpiruntham, a surgeon from Bangkok Hospital, who shared his expertise and experience in robotic-assisted surgery.

The Hugo? RAS system allows surgeons to operate through a console using 3D visualization and robotic arms positioned beside the patient, enabling highly precise surgical procedures. Its open-console design also supports close communication and coordination among the surgical team.

Robotic-assisted lung surgery provides an additional minimally invasive treatment option for patients with appropriate medical indications. Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery (VATS) remains the standard approach, with surgeons selecting the most suitable technique based on each patient’s condition and medical needs, prioritizing safety and the best possible outcomes.

This achievement reflects the collaboration of a multidisciplinary team, including surgeons, anesthesiologists, nurses, and medical personnel, as well as the trust of the patient and family.

It also demonstrates CMU Faculty of Medicine’s continued commitment to advancing medical knowledge, technology, and professional expertise to improve healthcare quality and expand access to modern medical treatments, in line with its vision: “A Medical School of Choice for Sustainable Health and Well-being through Innovation.”
Health Highlights

Gallery