Nalgonda: Doctors at the Community Health Center (CHC) in Palvancha, Bhadradri-Kothagudem district, have successfully performed their second knee replacement surgery, providing the treatment to the patient free of cost. Officials stated that this procedure has brought relief to patients who cannot afford the high cost of knee replacement surgeries in private hospitals; the cost for this treatment can range from approximately ₹3 lakh in Hyderabad to around ₹1.7 lakh in Kothagudem.
Hospital officials noted that patients often hesitate to undergo knee replacement surgeries at CHC-level hospitals due to widespread misconceptions regarding the availability and safety of such procedures. Encouraged by the success of the first surgery—performed approximately four months ago—B. Kavitha, a 52-year-old woman from the neighboring district of Warangal, approached the Palvancha CHC for treatment after learning about the previous case from a family in Yellandu.
Dr. Shailesh Kumar Nadikudi, a Civil Assistant Surgeon and orthopedic specialist who received training in knee and hip replacement surgeries at the Balaji Institute of Surgery, Research and Rehabilitation for the Disabled (BIRRD) in Tirupati, led the medical team that performed the surgery. Speaking to the Deccan Chronicle, Dr. Shailesh Kumar remarked that many patients believe knee replacement surgeries can only be performed in private hospitals. He explained that Kavitha had previously consulted doctors at a private hospital in Kothagudem and spent a significant amount of money on treatment, following which she was advised to undergo a knee replacement surgery—a procedure she could not afford.
The doctor further noted that the health of the first patient to undergo a knee replacement surgery at the Palvancha CHC four months ago has improved significantly, and the patient is now able to walk normally. The second surgery was also successful, and it is expected that the patient will be discharged from the hospital within a week. He further explained that the cost of the implant used in the surgery was covered under the Rajiv Aarogyasri scheme, and patients do not have to bear any expenses for this procedure at a government hospital. Kavita mentioned that her health has been improving significantly following the surgery, and doctors have advised her to gradually start walking after a week. She expressed her appreciation for the care provided by the medical staff at the Palvancha CHC.
Second Successful Knee Replacement Surgery at Palvancha CHC in Telangana; Patient Receives Free Treatment
