Robotic Total Knee Replacement: Overview & How It Works

What is Robotic Knee Replacement?

Knee pain can take away the joy of everyday life. Robotic knee replacement surgery offers new hope for those suffering. This advanced procedure uses precise robotic technology to make the surgery more accurate and personalised. In robotic knee replacement surgery, the surgeon removes damaged tissue in your knee and implants an artificial joint in its place. It means less pain, smaller scars, and a quicker return to doing what you love. Imagine walking without pain, playing with your grandkids, or simply enjoying a stroll again. This surgery isn’t just about fixing a knee; it’s about restoring people’s lives. If you or a loved one is struggling with knee pain, this could be the life-changing solution you need.

How does Robotic Knee Replacement Surgery work?

Robotic knee replacement surgery is a highly sophisticated and technologically advanced procedure that combines the surgeon’s expertise with the precision of robotic technology to remove damaged or diseased part of the knee and replace it with an artificial joint. The process typically involves the following steps:

A. Pre-operative Planning:

Before knee surgery, the surgeon uses advanced diagnostic techniques, such as CT scans or MRIs. They then develop a detailed 3D model of the patient’s knee joint. This model is then uploaded into the robotic system, allowing the surgeon to plan the procedure meticulously.

B. Robotic-Assisted Surgery:

After anaesthesia induction, the surgeon uses a robotic arm to execute the pre-planned surgical steps precisely. The robotic system provides real-time feedback and guidance, ensuring unparalleled accuracy in bone cuts, implant placement, and overall alignment.

C. Personalised Implant Placement:

The robotic system allows for the precise placement of the knee implant, tailoring it to the individual patient’s unique anatomy and biomechanics. This personalised approach can help improve the fit and function of the new joint, leading to better long-term outcomes.

D. Minimally Invasive Approach:

Robotic knee replacement often involves a smaller incision compared to traditional surgery, resulting in less tissue damage and potentially faster recovery times.

Advantages of Robotic Knee Replacement Surgery

Robotic knee replacement surgery can have many potential benefits compared to traditional knee replacement procedures. Some of the key advantages include:

• Improved Surgical Precision: The robotic system’s advanced technology and real-time feedback allow for unparalleled precision in bone cuts, implant positioning, and alignment of the new knee joint. This precision can lead to a better fit and function of the implant, potentially improving long-term outcomes, says Dr. Chetan Nagaraja.
• Enhanced Implant Fit and Alignment: The ability to customise the implant placement to the patient’s anatomy can result in a more natural feeling and better-functioning knee joint.
• Reduced Risk of Complications: The increased precision and minimally invasive approach associated with robotic knee replacement surgery are associated with reduced incidences of complications, such as implant misalignment, instability, or premature wear.
• Faster Recovery and Rehabilitation: Many patients who undergo robotic knee replacement surgery report a speedier recovery and quicker return to normal activities than those who undergo traditional knee replacement surgery.
• Improved Patient Satisfaction: Robotic knee replacement surgery can improve patient satisfaction by combining improved surgical outcomes, fewer complications, and faster recovery times.

Who is the candidate for Robotic Knee Replacement Surgery?

Robotic knee replacement surgery may be a suitable option for many patients suffering from severe knee joint problems, including:

• Osteoarthritis: The most common reason for knee replacement, osteoarthritis is a degenerative disease affecting various joints, including knees. It results in the breakdown of the knee joint’s cartilage, leading to pain, stiffness, and limited mobility.
• Rheumatoid Arthritis: An autoimmune disease associated with chronic inflammation and damage to the knee joint, making it a potential candidate for robotic knee replacement.
• Post-Traumatic Arthritis: This type of arthritis can result from a severe knee injury, such as a fracture or ligament tear.
• Avascular Necrosis: A condition in which the lack of oxygen supply to the bone tissue in the knee joint leads to its degeneration, potentially leading to the need for robotic knee replacement.

Comparison between Traditional and Robotic Knee Surgery

While both traditional and robotic knee replacement surgeries aim to address severe knee joint problems, there are some critical differences between the two approaches:

The Recovery Process for Robotic Knee Replacement Surgery

The recovery process for robotic knee replacement surgery typically includes a shorter hospital stay and a potentially faster return to normal activities than that for traditional knee replacement surgery.

Here’s a general overview of the recovery timeline:

• Hospital Stay: Patients undergoing robotic knee replacement surgery may be discharged within 1-3 days, depending on their progress and recovery.
• Physical Therapy: Patients typically begin physical therapy within a day or two of the surgery. These exercises may cause improved range of motion, strength, and mobility of the affected knees.
• Pain Management: Pain management is critical to the recovery process. Doctors may prescribe pain medication and other pain management techniques to the patients, such as ice therapy or electrical stimulation.
• Wound Healing: The smaller incision associated with robotic knee replacement surgery often results in faster wound healing, with patients typically able to resume light activities within 2-4 weeks.
• Return to Normal Activities: Many patients who undergo robotic knee replacement surgery can return to their normal routine, such as walking, driving, and light exercise, within 4-6 weeks. However, the timeline may vary and depend on the individual’s progress and the surgeon’s recommendations.
• Long-term Recovery: The complete recovery process can take several months, with patients continuing to experience improvements in strength, flexibility, and overall knee function over time.

How to Choose the Right Surgeon and Hospital for Robotic Knee Replacement Surgery

When considering robotic knee replacement surgery, choosing an experienced surgeon and a hospital specialising in this advanced procedure is crucial. Here are some factors to consider:

• Surgeon Experience: Look for an orthopaedic surgeon with extensive experience in robotic knee replacement surgery. Ask about the surgeon’s training, the number of successful robotic knee replacement procedures they have performed, and their track record of positive outcomes.
• Hospital Accreditation: Ensure that the hospital where you are planning to undergo robotic surgery is accredited and has a dedicated joint replacement program focused on robotic technology.
• Multidisciplinary Care Team: A successful robotic knee replacement surgery requires a team of doctors, including orthopaedic surgeons, physical therapists, and nurses. Look for a hospital that offers a comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach to patient care.
• Advanced Technology: Confirm that the hospital has the latest robotic technology and equipment necessary for robotic knee replacement surgery and is committed to ongoing training and investment in these innovative tools.
• Patient Outcomes: Research the hospital’s patient outcomes for robotic knee replacement surgery, including patient satisfaction rates, complication rates, and long-term implant survival.

Conclusion

As the field of orthopaedics continues to evolve, robotic knee replacement surgery is poised to play an increasingly important role in treating severe knee joint problems. This innovative approach’s precision, customisation, and potential for faster recovery have the potential to transform patients’ knee replacement experiences

Advancements in robotic technology, with continuous research and development, are likely to further enhance the capabilities of robotic knee replacement surgery. Improved implant designs, advanced imaging techniques, and even more precise robotic control may lead to better outcomes and a more personalised patient experience.