Zydus Hospitals in Gujarat is transforming joint replacement surgeries for elderly patients using advanced robotic technology. Osteoarthritis and chronic joint degeneration affect millions of elderly Indians, but robotic-assisted surgery now offers hope even for those in their late 70s to 90s.
Changing Perceptions of Age and Mobility
Across India, elderly individuals are increasingly seeking solutions to maintain their independence and quality of life. Robotic joint replacement surgery has emerged as a key option, allowing patients to avoid dependency on others.
Remarkable Case of a 92-Year-Old Patient
Dr. Satish Patel, Senior Robotic Joint Replacement Surgeon at Zydus Ahmedabad, shared the story of a 92-year-old woman who underwent bilateral total knee replacement using robotic surgery. She wanted to remain independent post-surgery. The procedure was successful, and she was discharged quickly, maintaining her independence. Dr. Patel noted that muscle-sparing, suture-less techniques minimize trauma and eliminate the need for suture removal.
Success with Comorbid Patients
Dr. Yatin Desai, Senior Orthopedic and Robotic Joint Replacement Surgeon, operated on an 83-year-old patient with pulmonary fibrosis and compromised kidney function. Despite comorbidities, robotic total hip replacement was completed in under an hour, reducing anesthetic exposure, blood loss, and stress. The patient experienced significant improvement.
Advanced Robotic System at Zydus
Zydus uses the Mako robotic system by Stryker, one of the most advanced available. Dr. Vilkesh Patel from Zydus Anand highlighted that the system reduces bone wastage and fluid loss, improving implant longevity. He operated on a 75-year-old woman with severe knee deformity and pain, for whom robotic surgery was life-changing.
Affordable and Accessible Care
Dr. Venkat Banerjee emphasized the mission to restore mobility through precise, safe, and affordable surgery. The cost of robotic joint replacement at Zydus Ahmedabad is 2.5 lakh rupees, and at Zydus Anand just 2 lakh rupees, significantly lower than metropolitan rates of 3-5 lakhs.
Expert Team and Outcomes
The team includes Dr. Samir Nanavati, Dr. Maulik Patwa, Dr. Tejas Thakker, and Dr. Mihir Dholakia. They noted that Zydus has become a primary destination for robotic surgeries in geriatric patients, with better post-operative recovery even for those with serious comorbidities.
Pre-operative digital planning and intraoperative robotic guidance ensure precise implant positioning, minimal soft tissue damage, and reduced operative time, making this a boon for elderly patients.
