Amritsar : Recently, 69-year-old Ms Rajeshwari Sharma, a resident of New York underwent Knee Replacement via SMART (Stitchless, Minimally-Invasive, Accurate, and Reliable Technique) knee replacement technique. Mrs Sharma was overweight - 125 kgs and had difficulty walking owing to her reduced knee function. Mrs Sharma on her recent visit to Amritsar, her hometown, had heard about this SMART technique and visited Fortis Amritsar to consult Dr. Mohit Arora, Additional Director, Joint Replacement Department at Fortis Escorts Amritsar. Post medical evaluation, Dr Arora recommended her to get both knees operated via the sutureless - SMART technique. The patient’s family had concerns regarding the SMART Knee Replacement Surgery in comparison to the traditional Knee Replacement Surgeries, however post counselling by Dr Mohit, the family went ahead with the SMART technique. There was no pain during or after the surgery, and Mrs Sharma could walk comfortably within one days post-surgery.
The inventor and patent holder of SMART (Stitchless, Minimally-Invasive, Accurate, and Reliable Technique) Knee Replacement Technique, Dr. Mohit Arora, considers the technique ideal especially for older and overweight patients due to the accuracy of the method in joint replacement, less blood loss, painless and quick recovery. Another key factor behind the rising popularity of this technique is the minimal cosmetic aftermath, making such surgeries convenient for younger patients as well. What is unique about the technology is the use of Minimal Invasive tools. Unlike conventional surgeries, SMART avoids muscle-nicking, leading to low or no blood loss, thus pacing up recovery without pain or the inconvenience of recovering with sutures.
Dr. Mohit Arora, Additional Director of the Joint Replacement Department at Fortis Escorts Hospital said, “The minimally invasive procedure used in this technique only requires a small incision and precise alignment, resulting in a better outcome and quick recovery. The patient can take a shower and resume household work within three days after the surgery, and the knee will last a lifetime. The smart technology is also highly effective for overweight patients, as of now we have done over 500 successful surgeries under SMART and over 10,000 traditional knee replacements. The key aspect here is that post-surgery, patients can lead comfortable and active lives without the fear of knee pain.”
Dr Arora also added, “While there are various types of joints available in the market, including imported and domestic Indian joints, choosing the right joint is crucial for the success of the surgery and the longevity of the joint. Patients should not select a joint based on the costing, but rather on the features. For example, Vitamin E-coated joints are known to have a longer lifespan. Patients should always consult their doctor before making any decision about joint replacement surgery and the type of joint to be used.”
Dr. Vikram Aggarwal, Facility Director at Fortis Escorts Hospital Amritsar, said, “With its state-of-the-art suture-less knee replacement technology and a team of highly skilled and experienced doctors, Fortis Escorts Hospital, Amritsar is committed to providing patients with the best possible outcomes.”