First 3D printed customized hip implant surgery successful in Uttarakhand: Achievement of AIIMS Rishikesh
3D Printed Hip Implant Surgery
Key Highlights:
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AIIMS Rishikesh successfully performed Uttarakhand’s first 3D printed customized hip implant surgery.
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A 60-year-old patient gained relief from unbearable pain and is now able to walk normally.
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An 8-hour complex surgery led by Professor Roop Bhushan Kalia was completed successfully.
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3D printing technology played a crucial role in correcting a complex bone defect.
Rishikesh, 24 April 2025
The All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) Rishikesh made history by successfully performing Uttarakhand’s first revision total hip replacement surgery using a 3D printed customized hip implant. This advanced technology gave new life to a 60-year-old patient from Haridwar, who had been suffering from unbearable pain and wheelchair dependency for years.
Patient’s Condition and Challenges
The patient, about 60 years old and suffering from ankylosing spondylitis, had undergone bilateral hip replacements at PGI Chandigarh in 2003. About 20 years later, the implants failed, causing severe pain and immobility since 2023. The patient had become completely dependent on a wheelchair for daily activities.
In 2024, he started treatment at AIIMS Delhi, but due to infection, the surgery there remained incomplete. As a temporary measure, a cement spacer and a stabilizing nail were placed. To avoid long waiting periods, the patient approached the specialists at AIIMS Rishikesh.
3D Printed Implant: A Revolutionary Solution
Upon evaluation, the AIIMS Rishikesh team found a large bony defect in the patient’s hip that could not be addressed with standard implants. Therefore, a specially designed 3D printed customized implant was created.
In the last week of February 2025, under the leadership of Professor Roop Bhushan Kalia from the Orthopedics Department, the team successfully completed the complex 8-hour surgery. The old cement spacer and nail were removed, and the 3D printed implant was successfully placed. The anesthesia team, led by Dr. Bhavana Gupta, provided critical support during the surgery.
Outcome of the Surgery
Seven weeks after the surgery, the patient is now able to bear full weight and walk normally. Expressing his gratitude, he said, “Since 2023, I was living in unbearable pain and dependent on a wheelchair. At AIIMS Rishikesh, I received excellent treatment and care. Thanks to the doctors’ compassion and hard work, I have found permanent relief. I am grateful to the entire team for helping me stand on my own feet again.”
Importance of 3D Printing Technology
This surgery showcases the effectiveness of 3D printing technology, which can offer revolutionary solutions for complex medical cases. It was the first surgery of its kind in Uttarakhand, opening up new possibilities in the medical field.
Conclusion
This achievement by AIIMS Rishikesh not only gave a new life to a patient but also demonstrated the vast potential of 3D printed implants in complex surgeries. This technology could be a game-changer for advanced medical procedures in the future.
