Bangalore, November 14, 2025 – In a landmark achievement for Indian orthopedics, Sakra IKOC (International Knee and Orthopedic Center) has successfully performed the country’s first AI-powered Total Knee Replacement surgery. The procedure, carried out on a 53-year-old female patient at the HSR Layout facility in Bangalore, marks the official entry of the Canadian med-tech leader, Intellijoint Surgical, into the Indian healthcare market.
The surgery was led by Dr. Chandrashekar P., Director of Orthopedics at Sakra IKOC, a world-renowned surgeon and pioneer in robotic orthopedics. By utilizing the Intellijoint KNEE system, the surgical team achieved robotic-level precision through an intelligent, imageless, and minimally invasive approach.
The Intellijoint KNEE system represents a significant leap forward from traditional methods. Unlike conventional robotic systems that often require bulky machinery and complex pre-operative imaging (such as CT scans), this AI-powered platform provides real-time intraoperative guidance through smart navigation.
One of the system’s most notable features is its “imageless” and “pinless” nature. The technology registers the patient’s unique anatomy through anatomical landmarks, such as the hip center of rotation. This eliminates the need for:
- Intramedullary (IM) rods: Reducing the risk of fat embolisms and systemic trauma.
- Extra-incisional pins: Ensuring all navigation happens within the regular surgical site, which minimizes scarring and potential infection sites.
Dr. Chandrashekar P. highlighted the clinical benefits, stating, “The Intellijoint KNEE system offers real-time measurements, ensuring bone cuts are precise and implants are strategically placed for optimal alignment. This surgeon-controlled AI system is built for convenience while significantly enhancing patient recovery and providing predictable, long-term outcomes.”
The unveiling event was attended by senior leadership from Sakra World Hospital, including Group COO Mr. Lovekesh Phasu, Vice President Mr. Yutaka Oyama, and Deputy Managing Director Mr. Kei Liyama. Their presence underscored the hospital’s commitment to integrating global technological advancements into the Indian medical landscape.
Armen Bakirtzian, Co-Founder and CEO of Intellijoint Surgical Inc., expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership: “Witnessing firsthand how our technology is transforming patient outcomes in India is truly inspiring. We are thrilled to mark our first successful knee replacement in India in collaboration with Dr. Chandrashekar and his exceptional team.”
For patients, the move toward AI-driven orthopedics translates to tangible health benefits. The precision of the Intellijoint system ensures a more natural-feeling joint, faster rehabilitation, and a reduction in post-operative complications. Furthermore, accurate implant placement is directly linked to the longevity of the prosthetic, potentially reducing the need for revision surgeries in the future.
With the AI-based surgical robots market in India projected to expand rapidly over the next decade, Sakra IKOC continues to solidify its position as a leader in the field. Dr. Chandrashekar, who holds the global record for the highest number of active robotic knee replacements, remains at the forefront of this evolution, having also been instrumental in developing MISSO, India’s first indigenous robotic system for joint replacement.
By combining world-class clinical expertise with cutting-edge AI software and precision milling tools, Sakra IKOC is setting a new standard for orthopedic excellence in the region.
