Robotic Injection Ends Chronic Pain

Doctors at PGI have introduced a revolutionary robotic-assisted treatment for chronic back and joint pain, marking a world first. This advanced procedure employs a specialized fluoride isotope PET-CT scan, originally used for cancer detection, to precisely locate the source of pain by identifying "hot spots" of inflammation that are often missed by conventional scans like X-rays or MRIs.

Once the pain generator is identified, a robotic arm guides a needle with millimeter accuracy to the affected site. Targeted anaesthetic and anti-inflammatory medication are then administered, providing long-term relief with an impressive 84% success rate. This high-tech intervention has been published in the "European Journal of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging" in 2026.

The treatment is particularly effective for chronic lower back pain, persistent heel pain, old sports injuries, and knee pain, offering an alternative to long-term medication or surgery. The procedure is designed for individuals whose chronic pain has not responded to rest or standard medical treatments. Patients typically undergo an orthopaedic evaluation before referral for the specialized scan and injection.

This innovative therapy is highly accessible, with the scan costing approximately Rs 1,000 and treatment materials around Rs 500, totaling roughly Rs 1,500. PGI is currently scheduling appointments within one to two weeks, making this life-changing relief available to many. The technique has shown success in patients aged 15 to 80.