Written by : Jayati Dubey
February 3, 2025
Source: X (Twitter)
He noted that AI-driven diagnostics and treatments have shown promising results, but human doctors must continue to play a vital role in taking responsibility for patient care.
The field of robotics in medicine has advanced significantly, requiring a balance between artificial intelligence (AI) technology and human expertise to ensure optimal patient care, according to Tamil Nadu IT Minister Palanivel Thiaga Rajan.
Speaking at the launch of an advanced robotic system for joint replacement surgery at a private hospital in Madurai, the minister emphasized the growing impact of automation in various industries, including healthcare.
"Today, in manufacturing and assembly, we have moved from 90% human labor and 10% automation to 90% automation and 10% human labor. Similarly, in medical technology, robots have significantly improved efficiency," he said.
He noted that AI-driven diagnostics and treatments have shown promising results, but human doctors must continue to play a vital role in taking responsibility for patient care.
Welcoming the introduction of advanced robotic technology in Madurai, Thiaga Rajan emphasized the city’s importance as a medical tourism hub.
He acknowledged the need for better accessibility to healthcare facilities and highlighted his past efforts as Finance Minister in 2023 to push for the expansion of Madurai airport and its upgrade to international status.
"Though aviation is not under my current portfolio, I will continue working to improve accessibility and medical infrastructure in Madurai," he said.
The newly launched robotic joint replacement system, introduced at Taj Orthopaedic Research Centre (TORC Ortho Care), has been imported from the United States at a cost of INR 4 crore.
Dr Kunal Dheep, consultant orthopedic and joint replacement surgeon at TORC Ortho Care, explained the key features of this cutting-edge robotic technology, emphasizing its precision and efficiency in surgical procedures.
"The robotic system reduces the average surgery time from one hour to 40 minutes. Additionally, it minimizes blood loss, ensures better knee balance, and reduces post-operative pain, scarring, and rehabilitation time for patients," he said.
Dr Dheep acknowledged that robotic joint replacement surgery typically costs INR 50,000 more than conventional procedures.
However, to make the treatment accessible, the hospital is offering the first 100 patients the surgery at no additional cost beyond the standard fee of a regular joint replacement surgery.
So far, 15 successful surgeries have been performed using the advanced robotic system, marking a significant step forward in orthopedic care in South India.
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