BONES & BEYOND: TRANSFORMING GERIATRIC CARE WITH ADVANCED IMPLANTS AND PROSTHETICS

The coming 5 to 10 years promises a transformative period for geriatric musculoskeletal care in India, which will be driven by disruptive technologies and cutting-edge implant innovations.

- By Nehal Gautam

India's aging population, projected to reach 320 million by 2050, is driving a demand for advanced orthopedic solutions, particularly implants and prosthetics tailored for geriatric care. As life expectancy rises, so does the need for interventions that restore mobility, independence, and quality of life for the elderly. In this cover story for Healthcare Radius, we explore the advancements shaping geriatric musculoskeletal care through the insights of Dr. Sharan Shivaraj Patil, Chairman and Chief Orthopedic Surgeon at Sparsh Hospitals. A renowned orthopedic surgeon with decades of experience, Dr. Patil has been at the forefront of integrating cutting-edge technologies like 3D-printed implants, Al-driven surgical planning, and robotic-assisted surgeries into clinical practice. In this exclusive interview, Dr. Patil explores the evolving landscape of advanced implants and prosthetics in India, addressing key trends, technological breakthroughs, and challenges in accessibility and affordability. From osteoporotic-friendly implants to sensor-enabled prosthetics, he highlights how innovations are enhancing surgical precision and recovery outcomes for elderly patients. He also discusses the critical role of infrastructure, policy interventions, and value-based care models in scaling these solutions to meet India's demographic shift.

Excerpts:
How has the demand for advanced implants and prosthetic solutions evolved in India's geriatric population over the past decade, and what factors are driving this change?