Mangaluru: In a landmark achievement for healthcare in coastal Karnataka, Father Muller Medical College Hospital has successfully performed South Karnataka’s first robotic total hip replacement, marking a significant milestone in precision-driven orthopaedic surgery and bringing advanced joint replacement technology closer to patients in the region.
The breakthrough eliminates the need for many patients to travel to metropolitan cities for robotic-assisted joint replacement, making world-class orthopaedic care accessible within coastal Karnataka.
Landmark procedure led by expert surgical team
The pioneering surgery was led by Dr. Vivian Roshan D’Almeida, Joint Replacement Surgeon and Unit Chief, with the support of Dr. Ashwin Kamath and Dr. Alfred Lobo, along with resident doctors from the department.
The anaesthesia team, comprising Dr. Kishen Shetty and Dr. Ritesh D’Cunha, ensured the smooth conduct of the procedure, while Nurse Nishin played a key role in the operating theatre.
The patient underwent comprehensive pre-operative optimisation by a multidisciplinary medical team that included Dr. Glen Fernandes, Dr. Pradeep Pereira, and Dr. Sudeep, contributing to the successful outcome.
Robotic technology enhances precision and recovery
Robotic-assisted hip replacement combines the expertise of the surgeon with advanced three-dimensional planning and real-time precision during surgery.
The technology enables highly accurate implant positioning, personalised surgical planning based on each patient’s anatomy, and better restoration of joint mechanics. These advantages are expected to improve joint function, enhance stability, and support quicker recovery following surgery.
Speaking about the achievement, Dr. Vivian Roshan D’Almeida said the introduction of robotic joint replacement reflects the hospital’s commitment to offering patients the latest evidence-based technology while maintaining the highest standards of safety and clinical excellence.
Strengthening orthopaedic excellence
The milestone further reinforces the reputation of the Department of Orthopaedics at Father Muller Medical College Hospital, which offers comprehensive services in trauma care, arthroscopy, spine surgery, hand surgery, microsurgery, and joint replacement.
The department functions under the leadership of Dr. Mrinal Shetty, making it one of the region’s leading centres for specialised orthopaedic care.
Management’s vision drives technological advancement
The acquisition of the advanced robotic joint replacement system was made possible through the support and vision of the hospital management led by Rev. Fr. Faustine Lucas Lobo, Director of Father Muller Charitable Institutions.
The initiative reflects the institution’s continued commitment to introducing advanced medical technologies that improve patient care and make cutting-edge treatment available locally.
With the successful completion of South Karnataka’s first robotic total hip replacement, Father Muller Medical College Hospital has set a new benchmark in orthopaedic surgery, paving the way for more patients across coastal Karnataka to benefit from minimally invasive, precision-guided joint replacement closer to home.
