In a ground breaking advancement for healthcare in Central Travancore, Believers Church Medical College Hospital, Thiruvalla, has introduced the region’s first robotic-assisted Total Knee Replacement (TKR) technology. Under the expert leadership of Dr. Nithin Thomas Philip, Associate Professor in the Department of Orthopaedics, the team has already achieved notable success, completing 10 surgeries with exceptional results. These outcomes showcase the substantial benefits this advanced technology brings to knee replacement patients, offering significant advantages over traditional methods and capturing public interest.
This milestone is a testament to the hospital’s commitment to excellence in medical care and the visionary leadership of Director Prof. Dr. George Chandy Matteethra and Manager Fr. Sijo Pandapallil. Their dedication has been instrumental in bringing this state-of-the-art technology to Central Travancore, aligning with the hospital’s mission to deliver world-class healthcare to the community.
Complementing this technological advancement is a distinguished team led by Prof. Samuel Chittaranjan, Prof. Vinoo Mathew Cherian, and Prof. Joji Joshua Philipose, which offers comprehensive orthopaedic services. The department provides specialized care in hand and microvascular surgery, led by Dr. Thomas Angelo Skariah; sports injury and arthroscopy, overseen by Dr. Subin Babu; and pediatric orthopaedics, directed by Dr. Deny K. Mathew. Together, these experts take a holistic approach to patient care, enhancing the effectiveness of the robotic TKR machine in delivering precision-driven treatments tailored to each patient’s unique needs.
Crucial to the success of robotic-assisted TKR is the support from Believers Church Medical College Hospital’s dedicated Biomedical Engineering and Anesthesia teams. The anesthesia team, led by Prof. Ashu Sara Mathai, ensures patient safety and comfort throughout each procedure, while the critical care team, headed by Prof. Philip Mathew, offers specialized post-surgical support, particularly for patients with complex conditions. The robotic-assisted TKR technology provides a level of precision that surpasses conventional, jig-based surgeries. By creating a 3D model of the patient’s knee, this system enables individualized treatment, aligning each implant to the patient’s unique bone structure. This approach leads to more natural knee movement post-surgery, enhancing patient comfort and mobility.
One of the key benefits for patients is a faster recovery period. Robotic precision minimizes trauma to surrounding tissues, resulting in less post-operative pain and quicker mobilization. Patients experience smoother and more effective rehabilitation, enabling them to resume daily activities sooner and with greater ease. Additionally, the robotic system significantly enhances the lifespan of knee implants. Unlike traditional knee replacements, which may have minor alignment deviations, robotic TKR ensures exact positioning, reducing wear and extending implant longevity. This feature is especially beneficial for younger, active patients.
Furthermore, robotic-assisted TKR offers an improved safety profile. Real-time feedback and continuous monitoring during the procedure allow for precise adjustments, minimizing the risk of complications and contributing to safer surgical outcomes.
Believers Church Medical College Hospital has set a new standard in orthopaedic care with robotic-assisted TKR, underscoring its commitment to adopting the latest medical technologies to benefit patient health, enhance quality of life, and promote long-term joint wellness in the community.