In a groundbreaking medical achievement, Dr. Aashish Arbat, a leading robotic joint replacement surgeon, has successfully performed bilateral hip replacement surgery using the minimally invasive SUPERPATH technique on a 43-year-old patient suffering from Avascular Necrosis (AVN) linked to post-COVID complications. The procedure was conducted at Oyster & Pearl (ONP) Hospitals, Pune, and offers renewed hope to patients battling AVN caused by the aftereffects of COVID-19.
The patient, Lala Dhumal, endured two years of debilitating hip pain following his recovery from COVID-19. What began as mild discomfort eventually left him bedridden, severely limiting his ability to perform daily tasks. After extensive tests, he was diagnosed with AVN, a condition where reduced blood flow leads to bone tissue death. Experts have linked AVN in post-COVID patients to high-dose steroid treatments and inflammation caused by the virus. Studies suggest that 3–4% of COVID-19 survivors develop AVN, with a global surge of 15–20% in cases since the pandemic.
Dr. Arbat’s team recommended the SUPERPATH technique for hip replacement, which uses robotic technology for unparalleled precision. This advanced procedure minimizes blood loss, spares tissues, and accelerates recovery, allowing patients to walk within days or even hours post-surgery.
“Mr. Dhumal’s condition was a result of post-COVID complications, which are increasingly common. With the SUPERPATH technique, we were able to address his advanced AVN effectively,” said Dr. Arbat.
After undergoing surgery and a brief rehabilitation period with physiotherapy, Dhumal regained his mobility and is now walking independently. Reflecting on his recovery, he shared, “After two years of pain and being bedridden, I never thought I’d walk again. Dr. Arbat and his team have given me a new lease on life.”
Dr. Arbat also raised concerns about the rising number of AVN cases among post-COVID patients, particularly those treated with steroids during their illness. He emphasized the importance of early diagnosis and intervention to prevent irreversible damage.
“Persistent joint pain post-COVID should never be ignored. Timely treatment can provide relief even in advanced cases of AVN,” he urged, encouraging greater awareness about post-COVID complications.
As per the press release, this successful surgery underscores the importance of advanced medical interventions and the need for continued vigilance in addressing long-term effects of the pandemic.