Can artificial intelligence and robotics make joint replacement surgery more precise and help patients regain mobility? These questions will take centre stage at IAACON 2026, the 22nd Annual Conference of the Indian Arthroplasty Association (IAA). Announced at EPIC Multispecialty Hospital, Ahmedabad, the conference will be held from October 23 to 25 at Club O7, bringing together over 1,000 registered delegates and 180 national and international faculty. The Theme of the Event is “Evolving Arthroplasty – Robotics, Kinematics and Innovation”.
“IAACON 2026 represents an important milestone for the Indian Arthroplasty Association, bringing together leading experts to advance the standards of arthroplasty practice in India. Our endeavour is to create a platform that combines contemporary knowledge with meaningful academic and surgical exchange,” said Dr. H.P. Bhalodia, Organising Chairman.
The conference will spotlight AI-assisted instruments, robotics and 3D camera-assisted surgery. Dr. H.P. Bhalodia will conduct a dedicated session on AI-assisted total hip replacement surgery using Intellijoint technology, highlighting the role of advanced surgical navigation in improving precision. The programme includes Unicondylar knee arthroplasty and total hip replacement demonstrations, approximately 30 surgical videos and expert panels discussing complex cases, rare periprosthetic fractures and challenging joint infections.
“With more than 1,000 delegates and 180 national and international faculty, IAACON 2026 is designed as a comprehensive academic forum with a strong focus on practical learning. The first large-scale cadaveric workshop in IAA’s history will further strengthen the hands-on dimension of the programme,” said Dr. Dhiraj Marothi Jain, Organising Secretary.
The IAA’s first large-scale cadaveric workshop, scheduled for October 22 at B.J. Medical College and Civil Hospital, Ahmedabad, will use 12 cadaveric specimens to demonstrate Direct Anterior Approach hip replacement, Unicondylar Knee Arthroplasty, Total Knee Arthroplasty and Reverse Shoulder Arthroplasty.
Ten international faculty will participate: four from Australia, three from Ireland, two from the United States and one from the United Kingdom.
“IAACON 2026 provides a valuable platform for arthroplasty specialists to exchange experience, discuss evolving clinical practices and learn from diverse perspectives. Participation from experts across India and overseas will encourage meaningful academic dialogue and collaborative learning,” said Dr. Dimple Parekh, Organising Co-Chairman.
The IAA will present its consensus document, a practical reference intended to guide younger surgeons through established surgical approaches, support consistent decisions and improve patient outcomes. Senior specialists will discuss its recommendations for two hours. Each of the 25 scientific sessions will conclude with remarks by the most senior doctors, practical take-home messages and open questions from students and faculty. Five halls will simultaneously host workshops using anatomical bone models.
“The scientific programme focuses on contemporary challenges and evolving techniques in arthroplasty, covering robotic and non-robotic approaches, Relive and InBox surgical sessions and focused workshops to support practical understanding of complex surgical decision-making,” said Dr. Deepak Dave, Scientific Committee Chairman.
The conference will introduce the C.S. Ranawat Gold Medal Competition, with approximately 140 submissions and two papers to be selected. Dr. Parag Sancheti will deliver the inaugural C.S. Ranawat Memorial Lecture. Inaugural and valedictory ceremonies are also scheduled.