Robotics-Assisted Hip Replacement Surgery
We must know that a fragment of an inch can make the difference between having a healthy hip joint and one that causes soreness and immobility. When discussing hip replacement surgeries, we must note that precision is of utmost importance. It is the reason a new technology was developed.
A robotic hip replacement is akin to a conventional hip replacement. Your surgeon removes damaged tissue from your hip and replaces it with an artificial joint. The only difference is that it is done with the help of a robotic arm. (1)
A robot's precision transcends the human eye, and that accuracy is what helps surgeons modify their procedures to the exact needs of your anatomy. This can lead to quick and optimal recovery after surgery, which hastens your return to everyday activities.
How Does It Work?
Many people imagine this life-size robot doing the procedure, but it is not. The orthopedic surgeon still does most of the work. The Robot is just there to place the prosthesis with pinpoint accuracy from the CT scan that was done. The Robotic Arm does not decide or act on its own. It does not move or perform any surgery, without guidance from the surgeon. (2)
The system allows surgeons to evaluate the patient’s bone structure, alignment, joint space, and tissues surrounding the joint and helps to plan the exact implant location, ensure accurate alignment and select the appropriate size for the replacement.
The first step to carrying out a robotic hip surgery is to take multiple CT scan pictures of your diseased joint from various angles that will be used to plan your surgery. These pictures are so concise that your surgeon can determine the best way the operation should be done before you enter the operating room.
This CT scan is then transferred into the system software to create a 3D model of your joint. This 3D model is used to plan every step of your surgery. It assists in the execution of the joint replacement.
During surgery, the orthopedic doctor uses the robotic arm to prepare bone and place the implant into your hip socket. After a successful surgery, your surgeon works with other health care professionals like physiotherapists and nurses to develop a recovery plan.
As with every other surgery, risks and complications may occur from total hip replacement, which includes Infections, Blood clots, Nerve damage (peripheral neuropathy), Joint weakness and stiffness, change in the treated leg length, and Joint dislocation, heart attack, Implant failure. Robotics-assisted surgeries have some advantages over the standard surgical procedure in this regard.
Benefits of robotics-assisted hip replacement surgeries
1. It ensures accurate alignment which improves function and durability, making it less likely to ever require another surgery on that same joint.
2. Faster recovery time.
3. Fewer complications when compared to conventional hip replacement surgery.
4. There’s a Reduced likelihood of hip dislocation.
5. It has a higher success rate.
6. Lowered risk of implant-to-bone rubbing.
7. Higher consistency with leg length is achieved.
References
1. https://www.beaumont.org/services/orthopedics/mako/total-hip
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