Chandigarh: Experts lay stress on balance between tech, clinical basics

The IORA Shoulder Conclave 2026, a national academic conference focusing on advances in shoulder surgery, began on Friday with experts emphasising the need to combine technological innovation with strong clinical fundamentals.

The two-day conclave is being organised by the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery at the Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER) under the aegis of the Arthroplasty Society of Tricity (AST) at Hotel Shivalik View. The conference, which will continue until March 7, has attracted more than 180 orthopaedic surgeons and postgraduate trainees from across the country.

Inaugurating the conclave, Vivek Lal, Director of PGIMER, urged young surgeons to maintain a strong grounding in clinical basics despite rapid technological advancements in medicine. Referring to the traditions of ancient Indian physicians Charaka and Sushruta, he said the fundamentals of diagnosis and patient evaluation remain unchanged.

“Technology is important, but the basics remain exactly as they were in the time of Charaka and Sushruta,” he said, cautioning against excessive dependence on modern tools. He added that doctors must first evaluate patients thoroughly before applying high-tech interventions.

The theme of the conference, “Technological Innovations in Shoulder Surgery,” focuses on recent advancements in arthroscopic and joint replacement techniques that are transforming the treatment of complex shoulder disorders.

SS Jha, Founder President and Patron-in-Chief of the Indian Orthopaedic Rheumatology Association (IORA), highlighted that while India has kept pace with global developments such as 3D printing for complex fractures and regenerative medicine, the human element in patient care remains vital.

Jha also drew attention to emerging concerns in orthopaedic care, particularly the growing burden of osteoporosis among the ageing population. He said guidelines prepared by the Indian Orthopaedic Association for managing osteoporosis are crucial for improving treatment outcomes.

One of the highlights of the conclave is a hands-on saw bone workshop, where participants are being trained in procedures such as shoulder replacement, arthroscopic rotator cuff repair and biceps tenodesis.