PGI Chandigarh Pioneers World's First Robotic Treatment for Chronic Pain
For millions suffering from persistent back or joint pain that remains invisible on traditional X-rays, a groundbreaking solution has emerged from Chandigarh. Doctors at the Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGI) have introduced the world's inaugural robotic-assisted treatment that precisely locates and treats chronic pain with a single, high-accuracy injection.
A Game-Changer for Chronic Pain Sufferers
This medical breakthrough is being celebrated as a transformative development for patients who have endured years of reliance on painkillers or faced unsuccessful surgical interventions. By integrating a specialized pain-tracking scan with a robotic arm, the medical team has achieved an impressive 84% success rate in delivering long-term pain relief.
Conventional diagnostic tools such as X-rays or MRIs frequently fall short in identifying the genuine source of pain. For instance, a patient might exhibit a slipped disc that appears problematic but isn't actually causing discomfort, while the true offender—a minuscule, inflamed joint—remains undetectable.
The Innovative Dual-Technology Approach
PGI's methodology employs a fluoride isotope PET-CT scan, originally utilized for cancer detection, which doctors have ingeniously adapted to function as a GPS for pain. This advanced scan identifies hot spots where bones or joints are excessively active in self-repair processes. These illuminated areas on the screen unveil the actual pain generators that other examinations overlook.
Once the hot spot is pinpointed, physicians avoid guesswork. Utilizing a robotic arm, they direct a needle to the exact millimeter of inflammation. Subsequently, they administer a focused dose of anesthetic and anti-inflammatory medication directly into the source.
Remarkable Patient Outcomes and Global Recognition
Dr. Aneesh, a key figure in the development, stated, "We've witnessed patients arriving in wheelchairs who walk out of the hospital independently. Our technique is the first of its kind globally and has consequently been published in a high-impact international journal."
This high-tech procedure is notably affordable, making advanced care accessible:
- The specialized PET-CT scan: Approximately Rs 1,000
- Treatment materials: Around Rs 500
- Total cost: Roughly Rs 1,500
Unlike numerous specialized treatments burdened by extensive waiting periods, PGI is currently scheduling appointments within one to two weeks, enhancing accessibility for ordinary citizens.
Who Can Benefit from This Treatment?
The technique has demonstrated efficacy for patients aged 15 to 80 and is especially potent for:
- Chronic lower back pain: Provides targeted relief for the spine's small joints.
- Stubborn heel pain: Assists individuals who experience discomfort with their initial morning steps.
- Old sports injuries: Addresses concealed ligament issues that have not healed properly.
- Knee pain: Offers an alternative for those not yet prepared for complete joint replacement.
The procedure is designed for chronic pain that has not responded to rest or conventional medications. Patients typically commence with an assessment by an orthopaedic surgeon. If a specific hot spot is suspected, they are referred for the specialized PET scan and subsequent robotic injection.
Research and Development Insights
This landmark study, spearheaded by Dr. Anish Bhattacharya, Dr. Rajender, and Dr. Vishal, was published in 2026 in the European Journal of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging. Dr. Rajender Kumar from the Department of Nuclear Medicine elaborated, "The technique involves identifying the active pain-generating site using NaF PET-CT, followed by highly targeted steroid injection under real-time PET-CT guidance, further enhanced by robotic assistance for unparalleled precision."
The integration of robotic technology with advanced imaging represents a significant leap forward in pain management, promising hope and relief for countless individuals worldwide.
