PRIME MINISTER A.B. Vajpayee's arthritis-affected right knee joint was replaced in a surgical operation at the Breach Candy Hospital in Mumbai on June 8. The 70-minute operation was performed by the New York-based orthopaedic surgeon Dr. Chittaranjan Ranawat. It was Ranawat who operated on the Prime Minister's left knee last October (Update, November 10, 2000).
Ranawat said that he had followed the same procedure that was adopted to replace Vajpayee's left knee joint. Vajpayee, who was administered a "regional block" or local anaesthesia, was conscious throughout the surgical procedure. He was not given sedatives. Ranawat said that Vajpayee's right knee was moderately afflicted with arthritis in October but the doctors decided to observe his condition before deciding whether to operate upon it. Surgery was an elective option and Vajpayee opted for it, Ranawat said.
The artificial joints will not affect the Prime Minister's normal movements. But, according to Ranawat, squatting cross-legged on the floor is not advisable. He said that there was practically no treatment for arthritis. The ailment, however, could be slowed down. Excessive body weight is one of the major reasons for this orthopaedic problem.
Vajpayee's knee problem worsened many a time in the past year. His discomfort was noticeable during his official visit to the United States.
According to the rules of government, the seniormost Minister takes charge if the Prime Minister is travelling or is indisposed. Home Minister L.K. Advani was Vajpayee's choice for this role. A make-shift Prime Minister's Office had also been set up at the hospital.
Anupama Katakam
