Mumbai Medical Milestone: 40-Year-Old Engineer Resumes Work After Complex PIP Joint Replacement At Gleneagles Hospital In Parel

Mumbai, August 24, 2026: After enduring nearly three months of treatment and physiotherapy, a 40-year-old electrical engineer from Kalyan has resumed his professional duties following a complex proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint replacement surgery at Gleneagles Hospital in Parel. The groundbreaking procedure utilized the KLS Martin CAP-FLEX joint replacement system, making it the first of its kind in Western India.

Sandeep Sonawane suffered a severe PIP joint injury, resulting in multiple fractures and a malunited joint, which left him with persistent pain, stiffness, and restricted movement. Dr. Kushal Shah, Hand Reconstructive and Brachial Plexus Surgeon at Gleneagles Hospital, opted for the PIP joint replacement after assessing Sonawane's extensive joint damage, bone condition, tendon function, and occupational requirements.

The surgeon explained that PIP joint replacement is technically demanding and appropriate only for carefully selected patients, considering factors such as age, occupation, extent of joint destruction, bone stock, tendon function, joint stability, and functional expectations. At the three-month follow-up, Sonawane displayed significant improvement in finger movement and was able to resume his professional activities, expressing gratitude for the life-changing outcome.

Dr. Bipin Chevale, CEO of Gleneagles Hospital Mumbai, emphasized that the primary goal of hand reconstruction is to restore meaningful function, enabling patients to regain their independence and confidence.