Patient Experience
A 72-year-old retired schoolteacher from a middle-class background presented with severe osteoarthritis in both knees, having delayed treatment due to financial concerns. Dr. Shanthakumar recommended staged bilateral knee replacements, coordinating with hospital administration for a payment plan. The patient regained full mobility after 6 months of physiotherapy and now volunteers at a local library.
An 8-year-old girl from an affluent family sustained a complex supracondylar fracture during a gymnastics competition. Dr. Shanthakumar performed closed reduction and percutaneous pinning with minimal invasion. The child's parents were actively involved in her recovery, and she returned to competitive gymnastics within 3 months with no residual limitations.
A 45-year-old construction worker from a low-income migrant family presented with chronic shoulder pain from repetitive strain injuries. Dr. Shanthakumar developed a conservative treatment plan involving corticosteroid injections and physical therapy, avoiding surgery due to the patient's need to continue working. The worker showed 80% improvement after 8 weeks and was able to maintain employment.
A 19-year-old college athlete from an upper-middle-class family suffered a complete ACL tear during a basketball game. Dr. Shanthakumar performed arthroscopic reconstruction using a hamstring autograft. With intensive rehabilitation and family-supported recovery, the athlete returned to competitive sports in 9 months with enhanced performance metrics.
A 68-year-old widow living alone with limited resources presented with an untreated Colles' fracture that had malunited. Dr. Shanthakumar performed corrective osteotomy and arranged for community health workers to assist during recovery. The patient regained functional wrist movement and independence in daily activities after 4 months.
A 33-year-old software professional developed severe carpal tunnel syndrome from prolonged computer use. Dr. Shanthakumar recommended endoscopic release surgery after conservative measures failed. The patient's recovery was remarkable, returning to work within 2 weeks with ergonomic modifications suggested by the doctor.
A 57-year-old diabetic farmer with peripheral neuropathy presented with a Charcot foot deformity. Dr. Shanthakumar implemented a multidisciplinary approach involving glycemic control and custom orthotics, avoiding amputation. The patient maintained ambulation with appropriate footwear and regular follow-ups over 12 months.
A 12-year-old boy from an underprivileged background presented with untreated congenital clubfoot. Dr. Shanthakumar performed the Ponseti method with serial casting followed by tenotomy. The treatment was provided through the hospital's charitable wing, and the child achieved normal gait development after 18 months of care.
A 41-year-old restaurant owner suffered complex pelvic fractures in a road traffic accident. Dr. Shanthakumar led a surgical team for open reduction and internal fixation. Despite initial prognosis concerns, the patient walked independently after 8 months of intensive rehabilitation and returned to managing his business.
A 29-year-old pregnant woman in her third trimester developed severe pubic symphysis pain. Dr. Shanthakumar designed a non-pharmacological management plan involving pelvic support belts and physical therapy modifications. The patient experienced significant relief and delivered successfully without orthopedic complications.
A 63-year-old retired army officer presented with advanced avascular necrosis of the hip. Dr. Shanthakumar performed ceramic-on-ceramic total hip arthroplasty. The patient recovered exceptionally well, resuming his passion for golf within 5 months and becoming an advocate for joint replacement awareness.
A 17-year-old student from a conservative family presented with severe scoliosis that had been hidden under loose clothing. Dr. Shanthakumar performed posterior spinal fusion with instrumentation. The family initially resisted but became strong supporters after seeing the dramatic improvement in their child's posture and confidence over 12 months.