About Orthopaedics at Smita Memorial Hospital
The Department of Orthopaedics at Smita Memorial Hospital provides expert care for bones, joints, ligaments and the spine — from fractures and trauma to joint replacement, sports injuries and spinal disorders. Experienced consultants offer both surgical and non-operative treatment, supported by radiology, pathology, intensive care and rehabilitation.
Care spans the orthopaedic sub-specialties — spine, hip, knee, shoulder, hand, foot and paediatric orthopaedics — with one aim: to restore mobility, relieve pain and help patients return to an active life. Joint replacements use computer-navigated arthroplasty, and 24-hour trauma care is available through the Emergency and Trauma Centre.
Orthopaedics treatments & services
Joint replacement
Total knee, hip and elbow replacement using computer-navigated arthroplasty, and revision of failed replacements.
Arthroscopy & sports medicine
Keyhole surgery for knee, shoulder, elbow and ankle; ACL reconstruction, meniscectomy and cartilage repair.
Trauma & fracture care
24-hour care for polytrauma, compound and long-bone fractures, minimally invasive fixation, ORIF and PFN.
Spine
Spine fusion and treatment of spinal fractures, disc prolapse, spondylolisthesis, deformity and spinal cord tumours.
Hand & upper limb
Carpal tunnel release, subacromial decompression and De Quervain's release.
Paediatric orthopaedics
Congenital deformities such as clubfoot and Blount's disease.
Limb reconstruction
Correction of malunion, non-union and deformities.
Bone tumours
Bone tumours, sarcomas and avascular necrosis.
Rehabilitation
Physiotherapy, joint injections and pain management.
When should you see a specialist?
Consider booking a consultation if you notice any of the following. This is general guidance, not a diagnosis.
- Knee or hip pain that limits walking or climbing stairs
- A twisting sports injury with swelling or a feeling the knee 'gives way'
- A fall or accident with pain, swelling or deformity (emergency)
- Back pain spreading down the leg
- Shoulder pain or stiffness that disturbs sleep
- Numbness or weakness in the hand
Orthopaedics doctors in Thodupuzha
Dr. Varkey Sabu Kulangara
MBBS,MS ORTHOPAEDICS,DNB ORTHOPAEDICS,MRCS RCSEd (2022),FACS (2022)
Orthopaedics — frequently asked questions
Is knee replacement done in Thodupuzha?
Yes. Smita Memorial Hospital performs total knee, hip and elbow replacements using computer-navigated arthroplasty, followed by in-house physiotherapy.
What is computer-navigated joint replacement?
Navigation uses a computer system during surgery to guide the precise positioning and alignment of the implant, which helps the joint function well and last longer.
Do you treat sports injuries like ACL tears?
Yes. The department performs arthroscopic ACL reconstruction, meniscectomy and cartilage repair, along with sports medicine care.
Is fracture treatment available at night?
Yes. 24-hour trauma and emergency care is available, with a multidisciplinary trauma team that includes orthopaedics.
Where is physiotherapy after surgery?
The Physiotherapy Department is on the 10th floor and runs Monday to Saturday, 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM, and also treats inpatients on the wards and in ICU.