The Department of Orthopaedics at Community Health Centre (CHC) Sankoo, Kargil, successfully performed its first-ever bilateral cemented Total Knee Replacement (TKR) surgery for a patient suffering from Grade IV severe osteoarthritis on July 25.

The landmark procedure, conducted in a single sitting, marks the first time such an advanced orthopaedic surgery has been performed at CHC Sankoo, bringing specialised joint replacement services closer to the people of Sankoo and the Suru Valley.

The achievement is expected to significantly reduce the need for patients to travel to tertiary hospitals outside the region for advanced orthopaedic treatment.

The surgery was successfully performed by Dr. Altaf Hussain, Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon, CHC Sankoo, along with Dr. Ahmad Ali, Senior Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon, QAAM District Hospital, Kargil, with the support of a dedicated surgical and operation theatre team.

Anaesthesia was administered by Dr. Asif, Senior Consultant Anaesthetist, QAAM District Hospital, Kargil, assisted by the anaesthesia team, ensuring the procedure was carried out safely and smoothly.

The coordinated efforts of the medical team led to the successful completion of the surgery, restoring mobility, relieving pain and offering the patient an improved quality of life.

The successful completion of the first Total Knee Replacement surgery at CHC Sankoo marks a significant milestone in the region's healthcare journey. Besides providing advanced treatment closer to home, it establishes a new benchmark in delivering specialised orthopaedic care in the remote areas of Ladakh.

The achievement also reflects the commitment of the Health Department, Union Territory of Ladakh, to strengthening healthcare infrastructure and ensuring that quality, affordable and advanced medical services are accessible to people at the grassroots level.