Three-day conference brings together over 200 national faculty members and nine international experts to explore innovations transforming joint replacement surgery
Ahmedabad: The future of joint replacement surgery, driven by robotics, artificial intelligence and precision-based techniques, emerged as the central focus of IAACON 2026, the 22nd Annual Conference of the Indian Arthroplasty Association, which concluded successfully in Ahmedabad after three days of scientific deliberations and professional exchange.
The conference brought together 205 national faculty members, nine international experts, and hundreds of orthopaedic surgeons and postgraduate students from across the country. Discussions centred on emerging surgical technologies, improved clinical decision-making and evidence-based practices aimed at enhancing patient outcomes in hip, knee and shoulder replacement procedures.
Supported by the Indian Arthroplasty Association, Indian Orthopaedic Association, Gujarat Orthopaedic Association, Ahmedabad Orthopaedic Society and Ahmedabad Arthroplasty Association, the event highlighted Gujarat’s growing prominence in advanced orthopaedic care. With more than three lakh hip and knee replacement procedures performed annually in India, the conference underscored the increasing importance of arthroplasty in restoring mobility and improving quality of life.
The conference was inaugurated by Gujarat Chief Minister Shri Bhupendra Patel, who emphasised the life-changing impact of joint replacement surgery. He noted that restoring mobility enables patients to regain independence, resume professional activities and participate more actively in society.
A major highlight was the exploration of robotic-assisted surgery and artificial intelligence in modern arthroplasty. Experts discussed image-based, imageless and AI-enabled 3D robotic systems and their applications in pre-operative planning, bone preparation, implant positioning and assessment of joint alignment and balance. The sessions provided opportunities to examine how technological advances can support surgical precision while retaining the importance of clinical expertise and individualised patient care.
The academic programme was organised around the theme, “Evolving Arthroplasty: Robotics, Kinematics & Innovation.” It featured 35 scientific sessions and four structured debates, alongside surgical video presentations, complex case discussions and interactive learning sessions. Topics included implant design, alignment techniques, infection prevention, surgical outcomes and enhanced recovery protocols.
The scientific proceedings were preceded by a cadaveric workshop at B. J. Medical College, where approximately 70 faculty members and 180 delegates received hands-on training. The workshop covered the direct anterior approach to hip replacement, unicondylar knee replacement and reverse shoulder replacement, providing participants with practical exposure to specialised surgical techniques.
Dr. H. P. Bhalodia, Organising Chairman, highlighted the importance of collaborative learning and critical evaluation of emerging technologies. He observed that scientific exchange enables surgeons to assess new developments and incorporate evidence-based approaches into clinical practice.
Dr. Dhiraj Marothi Jain, Organising Secretary, emphasised that meaningful interaction among faculty members and delegates was central to the conference’s success, helping participants deepen their understanding of complex cases and strengthen their professional capabilities.
As IAACON 2026 concluded, it reinforced the importance of combining technological innovation with surgical expertise, rigorous training and patient-centred care. The conference provided a valuable platform for orthopaedic professionals to exchange knowledge, explore future directions in arthroplasty and work towards better mobility, faster recovery and improved quality of life for patients.
