At KIMS Hospitals, Thane, teamwork and precision came together to achieve what many would consider nearly impossible — a successful total hip replacement surgery on a woman in her 60s battling multiple health conditions, including osteoporosis, Sjögren’s syndrome, renal tubular acidosis, hypokalemia, and anaemia.
The patient had endured weeks of immobility and pain due to a missed diagnosis. After receiving treatment for pneumonia and Sjögren’s syndrome elsewhere, she began to experience severe pain in her right hip. Despite visiting multiple hospitals, her discomfort persisted. An MRI at KIMS Hospitals finally revealed the real issue — a full-thickness impacted undisplaced linear subcapital fracture in the right femur that had gone undetected for weeks.
This wasn’t just another fracture case. The patient’s condition was complicated by advanced osteoporosis, chronic anaemia, and electrolyte imbalances — all of which made the surgery extremely high-risk.
Recognising the complexity, KIMS Hospitals formed a multidisciplinary team involving specialists from orthopaedics, rheumatology, endocrinology, nephrology, pulmonology, and cardiology. This team approach ensured every aspect of her health was optimised before surgery.
The procedure was led by Dr Parth Agrawal, Consultant – Arthroscopy, KIMS Hospitals, Thane.
“Despite her multiple comorbidities and delayed diagnosis, the patient responded well to our multidisciplinary management. We meticulously planned the surgery to minimise risks, and I’m pleased to share that she has regained mobility and is now fit for discharge,” said Dr Agrawal.
Adding her insights, Dr Natasha Negalur More, Consultant Rheumatologist, explained:
“Patients with Sjogren’s syndrome, especially those with distal RTA, often present with fluctuating potassium levels and musculoskeletal complications. This makes them vulnerable to fractures and delayed healing. A coordinated medical approach played a key role in her recovery.”
Echoing the sentiment, Dr Vijay Negalur, HOD – Diabetology, emphasised the value of integrated care:
“This case highlights the importance of early diagnosis and a multidisciplinary approach in managing complex patients. Conditions like anaemia, hypothyroidism, and autoimmune disorders demand personalised care. The successful outcome was possible only because of timely intervention and seamless coordination between departments.”
Post-surgery, the patient underwent structured physiotherapy and rehabilitation, showing steady improvement without complications like nausea or excessive pain. She was discharged with customised advice on diet, medication, and physiotherapy — ensuring a safe and sustained recovery.
This story isn’t just about one successful surgery — it’s a reminder that early diagnosis, collaboration, and personalised care can turn even the most complex medical challenges into stories of hope and healing.
