Attappadi has achieved a proud milestone in public healthcare. The Tribal Speciality Hospital at Kottathara has successfully performed the first robotic knee replacement surgery in a government hospital in Kerala.

The surgery was done for a 65-year-old patient from Attappadi under the Karunya Health Security Scheme (KASP). The procedure used the advanced ‘Mako’ robotic system developed by the Indian company Meril. This type of treatment usually costs lakhs in private hospitals. Now, it has been made available to common people in Attappadi at an affordable cost.

This achievement is the result of years of steady progress. Over the last 10 years, the hospital has seen major improvements. Around ₹12 crore was spent to upgrade its facilities. Last year, under the Aardram Mission, it was upgraded to a Taluk Headquarters Hospital.

The surgery was led by orthopaedic experts Dr. Abymon George and Dr. Omer Ali. The anaesthesia team included Dr. Rahul and Dr. Sunitha. They were supported by Dr. Varsha and a dedicated team of nurses and staff.

Earlier, people in Attappadi, especially from Adivasi communities, had to travel to places like Coimbatore for such advanced treatment. Today, they can access the same care close to home.

This is not just a medical achievement. It is a story of hope. It shows how better facilities and teamwork can bring quality healthcare to every corner of Kerala.