Dr. Swaroop Patel, Director of Robotic Joint Replacement
Joint problems, especially osteoarthritis (OA), have become a major health concern among the elderly in India. Osteoarthritis is a degenerative disease in which joint cartilage is damaged. So there is pain and less running. It mainly affects the knees, hips, spine and hands. As the condition becomes severe, it can severely limit a person’s daily activities and severely impact their freedom of life.
It is estimated that about 15-20% of the Indian population above the age of 60 suffers from osteoarthritis. Women are particularly susceptible to this effect after menopause. Joint problems are increasing in the country due to obesity, reduced mobility and past injuries. Unfortunately, a lack of awareness of early detection and treatment often results in delayed diagnosis and worsening of the condition. Delays in treatment can also increase costs.
Work efficiency and production suffer
Due to the effects of osteoarthritis, people find it difficult to walk on the streets, climb stairs or even get dressed. This phenomenon is more common in rural areas. A large number of people cannot receive timely treatment and their condition worsens.
What is the procedure for joint replacement surgery?
In recent years, robot-assisted surgery has gained prominence in the treatment of osteoarthritis, especially joint replacement surgery. Robotic systems, such as *MAKO* robotic arm-assisted surgery, offer a more precise, minimally interventional alternative to traditional joint replacement methods. These robotic technologies enable plastic surgeons to develop surgical plans based on 3D imaging of a patient’s unique anatomy, thereby increasing precision during surgery.
Accurate Implant Placement Results
This makes implant placement more accurate. Patients feel more natural. Compared with traditional techniques, robotic surgery results in smaller incisions, less tissue damage, less bleeding, and shorter recovery times. Become a safer, more efficient choice.
Poverty-stricken areas lack advanced technology
However, despite its advantages, robotic surgery remains an expensive option and is still not widely available, especially in rural areas of India. Although major metropolitan hospitals in cities such as Delhi, Mumbai and Bangalore have started adopting robotic systems in their orthopedic departments, many poor areas still do not have access to this advanced technology. Over time, as the cost of robotic surgery falls and the technology becomes more widely available, it has the potential to revolutionize the way osteoarthritis is treated in India.
Strengthening rural health care a challenge
Robotic surgery offers a promising solution, providing more precise, less invasive procedures with faster recovery times. More efforts are needed to make this technology accessible to a wider population, especially in rural areas. By increasing awareness, expanding healthcare infrastructure and reducing costs, robotic surgery can play an important role in treating osteoarthritis and improving the quality of life of millions of people in India.
To learn more about osteoarthritis and its treatment options, including robotic surgery, watch TV9 Digital’s special program hosted by Dr. Swaroop Patel, Director of Robotic Joint Replacement at Apex Hospital, Varanasi. For more information or to schedule an appointment, please visit www.apexhospitalvaranasi.com or call 9119601990.
