Sat Apr 19 17:51:03 UTC 2025: ## Karnataka Launches Initiative to Curb Unnecessary Joint Replacement Surgeries
**Bengaluru, April 19, 2025** – Karnataka’s Health Department is taking steps to reduce unnecessary joint replacement surgeries following a low response rate to its second opinion helpline. The helpline, launched last November, aims to provide patients with expert advice before undergoing procedures like total knee and hip replacements (TKR and THR).
Despite receiving 99 calls, only 17 cases were reviewed due to incomplete documentation. The department now plans to mandate that hospitals submit patient data for elective joint surgeries in advance, allowing experts to contact patients directly and offer second opinions. This proactive approach aims to ensure that surgeries are only performed when absolutely necessary and to explore conservative management options.
The initiative comes amid a rise in joint replacement surgeries due to increased arthritis, age-related degeneration, and injuries. However, officials note that not all joint problems require surgery. A review of 319 online referrals under the state’s health scheme revealed that 7% of patients did not require surgery, with alternatives suggested for five others.
Principal Secretary (Health), Harsh Gupta, stated that the new system aims to provide comprehensive medical advice and prevent unnecessary procedures. While the helpline’s low usage is concerning, the data collected highlights a need for better patient engagement and access to expert consultations before committing to major surgeries. The department is currently working on implementing this data-sharing system with hospitals registered under the Karnataka Private Medical Establishments Act.
First Piper 