My Interview with Dr. Ponnanna KM on Hip Replacement in Bangalore

hip replacement in Bangalore

As a medical journalist, my work often involves stepping into operating theatres, outpatient clinics, and recovery wards to understand how complex procedures are translated into patient care. During a recent visit to Opera Bone and Joint Clinic in Malleswaram, I interviewed Dr. Ponnanna KM to gain insight into the evolving practice of hip replacement in Bangalore, particularly the minimally invasive approaches now being adopted in orthopedic surgery.

Rather than focusing on outcomes alone, my objective was to observe the clinical philosophy, infrastructure, and decision-making process behind this increasingly common procedure.

Dr. Ponnanna KM: Qualifications and Orthopedic Training

Dr. Ponnanna KM is a formally trained orthopedic surgeon with advanced specialization in joint preservation and joint replacement surgery. His academic background includes postgraduate training in orthopedics, followed by extensive hands-on experience in knee and hip replacement procedures.

Over the years, he has developed focused expertise in modern surgical techniques, including minimally invasive hip replacement approaches such as the SuperPATH method. His training and surgical exposure reflect the standards typically associated with an experienced Orthopedic Surgeon in Bangalore, particularly in the subspecialty of adult joint reconstruction.

During our discussion, Dr. Ponnanna emphasized that orthopedic surgery is as much about patient selection and preoperative planning as it is about the procedure itself.

Clinical Experience and Surgical Focus

Dr. Ponnanna’s clinical practice includes management of degenerative joint disease, fractures around the hip, avascular necrosis, and failed prior joint surgeries. Hip replacement forms a significant portion of his surgical workload, especially in patients whose mobility and quality of life have been compromised by chronic pain.

He explained that not every patient with hip pain requires surgery. Conservative measures such as physiotherapy, medication, and lifestyle modification are considered first. Surgery is recommended only when joint damage significantly limits daily activity.

This stepwise approach reflects the clinical reasoning expected from a Best Orthopedic Doctor in Bangalore, where surgical intervention is carefully timed rather than hastily advised.

Opera Bone and Joint Clinic: Environment and Infrastructure

Opera Bone and Joint Clinic serves as Dr. Ponnanna’s primary consultation center. During my visit, the clinic appeared structured for focused orthopedic care, with facilities for detailed clinical evaluation, imaging review, and postoperative follow-ups.

For surgical procedures, Dr. Ponnanna operates at well-equipped hospitals such as Sparsh Hospital in Yeshwanthpur. These facilities are designed to support advanced orthopedic surgeries, including joint replacements, with access to modern operation theatres, anesthesia services, and rehabilitation support.

The integration between clinic-based assessment and hospital-based surgery allows continuity of care, which is particularly important in procedures like hip replacement in Bangalore, where long-term follow-up influences outcomes.

Understanding Hip Replacement: A Clinical Overview

Hip replacement surgery involves replacing the damaged hip joint with artificial components designed to restore movement and reduce pain. Dr. Ponnanna discussed newer techniques such as muscle-sparing approaches, which aim to minimize tissue disruption.

The SuperPATH technique, for example, allows access to the hip joint without cutting major muscles or tendons. According to Dr. Ponnanna, this can result in reduced postoperative pain and faster functional recovery in selected patients.

However, he was careful to note that technique selection depends on individual anatomy, bone quality, and underlying pathology.

Benefits of Hip Replacement Surgery

When appropriately indicated, hip replacement can offer substantial benefits:

• Significant reduction in chronic hip pain

• Improved mobility and walking ability

• Enhanced independence in daily activities

• Better overall quality of life

Dr. Ponnanna noted that many patients report improvements not only in physical movement but also in sleep quality and mental well-being once persistent pain is addressed.

Risks and Limitations: A Balanced Perspective

Despite its success rate, hip replacement surgery is not without risks. Dr. Ponnanna discussed these openly during the interview.

Potential risks include:

• Infection

• Blood clots

• Dislocation of the artificial joint

• Wear or loosening of implants over time

• Rare nerve or vascular injury

He emphasized that meticulous surgical technique, sterile protocols, and patient compliance with rehabilitation significantly reduce these risks. Understanding these factors is essential for informed consent.

Approximate Cost Range: General Considerations

The cost of hip replacement surgery can vary based on several factors:

• Type of implant used

• Surgical technique employed

• Hospital infrastructure and length of stay

• Patient’s medical condition and need for additional care

Dr. Ponnanna refrained from quoting specific figures, explaining that cost discussions are best handled after a detailed clinical evaluation. From a journalistic standpoint, this reinforces the importance of individualized treatment planning rather than standardized pricing.

Precautions and Aftercare: Advice Shared During the Interview

Postoperative care plays a crucial role in long-term success. Dr. Ponnanna outlined several precautions he routinely advises patients:

• Follow physiotherapy protocols consistently

• Avoid high-impact activities during early recovery

• Maintain recommended posture and movement restrictions

• Monitor for signs of infection or unusual pain

He also stressed the importance of follow-up visits to assess implant position and functional recovery.

Reflections from the Clinic Visit

Spending time at Opera Bone and Joint Clinic highlighted how orthopedic surgery today balances technology with patient-centered care. Hip replacement is no longer viewed solely as a last resort but as a carefully timed intervention aimed at restoring mobility.

For patients exploring options for hip replacement in Bangalore, understanding the procedure’s scope, limitations, and aftercare requirements is as important as choosing where to undergo surgery.

Contact Dr. Ponnanna KM – Scheduling & Locations

📍 Opera Bone and Joint Clinic 14 Ground Floor, 4th Main, 6th Cross Rd, Malleshwaram, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560003

📍 Sparsh Hospital 4/1, Tumkur Rd, Yeshwanthpur Industrial Area, Phase 1, Yeswanthpur, Bengaluru, Karnataka – 560022

Tel: 8951545276

Mail: dr.ponnanna@gmail.com

To Know More – Schedule a consultation today.