03 May 2010
Kolkata, India
Here is good news for patients who need to replace a broken knee or hip with artificial implants. The Central Glass and Ceramic Research Institute (CGCRI) has developed a complete bio–ceramic prosthesis for the hip and knees that will bring down the cost of surgery by 70% compared to imported implants that are used widely now.
“Over the last five years, a team of five scientists from CGRI has developed the artificial implant. We do have Indian–make prosthesis of polymer cups and ceramic balls that has a life span of not more than seven to 14 years. But the bio–ceramic prosthesis has a minimum life span of 20 years,”said Debabrata Basu, scientist and head of the bio–ceramic and coating division of CGCRI.
On May 23 and 24, a team of doctors will conduct a joint replacement operation at Jubilant Kalpataru Hospital in Barasat. Once the project is a success, they will sell the patent to a manufacturer. “A bio–ceramic prosthesis will cost only Rs 15,000 a stick. An imported prosthesis costs around Rs 1,25,000,”said CGCRI director Indranil Manna.
“Although the bio–ceramic prosthesis will cost more than the existing one, it has a bigger life span. Considering the overall cost of the surgery, it’s better to implant the bio–ceramic prosthesis,”said Kausik Sarkar, an orthopaedic surgeon from Jubilant Kalpataru Hospital.
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