Digital Transformation in Orthopedics: Can India Leapfrog with Artificial Intelligence, Augmented Reality, and Robotics?

Abstract

Digital technologies are transforming orthopedic practice by improving diagnostic accuracy, surgical precision, and personalized patient care. Artificial intelligence, augmented reality, and robotics are increasingly integrated across the orthopedic continuum, enabling data-driven decision-making and reproducible surgical execution. India presents a unique opportunity to accelerate this transformation due to its high clinical volumes, expanding digital infrastructure, and growing ecosystem of indigenous innovation. However, challenges related to cost, infrastructure, workforce training, and governance remain significant. This editorial explores the opportunities, barriers, and strategic priorities for adopting digital technologies in orthopedics and discusses whether India can leapfrog conventional developmental pathways to establish an integrated, affordable, and patient-centered digital orthopedic ecosystem.