“The operation theatres of the centre have latest equipment like laminar air flow, sensor operated automatic doors, computer-assisted surgery via navigation system, walls and ceilings clad with aseptic, washable and fire resistant material,” said Dr Parag Sancheti, Orthopaedic surgeon and medical director of the Institute.

Speaking after the inauguration of the centre, Patil appealed to all the medical fraternity to ensure that the needy and the poor are not forgotten. The prevalence of osteoarthritis is high in the country and one lakh people every year require knee replacement surgery. However, only 15,000-18,000 people are able to avail of the surgery. This centre will ensure that needy patients get this facility.

Patil was also shown a film about the centre and Dr K H Sancheti’s patented Indus Knee, which is an indigenous knee joint.

The Institute has also planned to start a postgraduate diploma and fellowship in joint replacement surgery.

“Although, joint replacement work in the country is increasing by leaps and bounds, there are very few trained orthopaedic surgeons for joint replacement surgery,” Sancheti said.