Kullu’s Regional Hospital emerges as centre for excellence in orthopaedic surgeries

The Regional Hospital, Kullu, has established itself as a centre of excellence for complex orthopaedic procedures, with specialist Dr Santusht leading a series of successful major surgeries that are typically only available in metropolitan hospitals.

The hospital recently performed advanced procedures, including hip and knee transplant surgeries, for which patients from the region previously had to travel to Chandigarh, New Delhi or other major cities. These achievements represent a significant upgrade in the healthcare infrastructure available to the communities of Kullu, Mandi, Lahaul-Spiti and the remote Pangi area of Chamba.

What makes this development particularly noteworthy is the growing reachement of the hospital. While it traditionally served patients from these neighbouring districts, patients from other districts of Himachal Pradesh are now seeking treatment here. This expanding geographic reach demonstrates the trust that has been built in the hospital’s capabilities under Dr Santusht’s orthopaedic specialisation.

Chief Medical Officer Dr Ranjeet Singh attributed this success to the collective expertise of the hospital’s specialist surgeons. He says that the hospital now has several highly-skilled specialists who are routinely performing unique and complex surgeries, giving a new dimension to the health facilities available at the regional level. He described surgeons as very promising and dedicated professionals committed to bringing advanced healthcare closer to the masses.

Garja Ram (72), a resident of Bilaspur, had been suffering from chronic pain in both knees for several years. Despite seeking treatment at various places, he found no lasting relief and struggled with mobility.

After hearing about successful joint replacement surgeries at the Regional Hospital, Kullu, he consulted orthopaedic specialist Dr Santusht, who after detailed medical evaluation and necessary tests, advised total him the replacement of one knee. The surgery was successfully performed with the support of anaesthesia specialist Dr Rajeev Shashni and Dr Isha.

As Garja Ram experienced immediate relief and improved mobility, he requested surgery on his second knee as well. Just three days later, the second knee replacement was also successfully done. Now able to walk comfortably, Garja Ram expresses gratitude to the doctors, saying the replacement surgeries have given him a new and pain-free life.

For residents of these hill districts, where difficult terrain and weather conditions often hamper travel to distant cities, accessing specialised orthopaedic care and treatment locally represents a transformative improvement in the quality of life. Patients requiring hip or knee replacements have to undergo complex procedures that involve intricate surgical techniques and post-operative care. Now, they can receive treatment near their homes with family support readily available.