Robotic-Assisted Knee Replacement - Innovative Science
The Robotic-assisted knee replacement is not very different from the traditional knee replacement. The special thing about it is that your doctor uses a robotic device to assist him in the course of the surgery. It does not mean that an actual robot performs the surgery.
Types of Robotic Assisted Knee Replacement
There are two major types of robotic-assisted knee replacement:
1. The Navio Surgical System
In this type of knee replacement, the system measures bony anatomy to create a 3D representation of your knee. When your leg is moved around the robotic system can see the movement of your leg and knee together. It does not require a pre-operative CT scan like another system. The robotic arm will guide your surgeon in the preparation of the bone to correct and appropriate placement of your implant.
2. Mako Robotic-Assisted Knee Surgery
The mako system differs in the sense that it requires a CT Scan image of your joint before the surgery to guide your surgeon with his handheld tool in the appropriate position to place the implant and the bone alignments. (1)
Who is suitable for a Robotic Assisted Knee Replacement?
You may be wondering if there are any criteria used in determining if you can be suitable for robotic-assisted knee replacement. If your doctor can certify you as suitable for a total or partial knee joint replacement, then you are also suitable for a robotic-assisted knee replacement surgery. Robotic-assisted knee replacement is not restricted to any set of people. (4)
Robotic-assisted knee replacement is also better and ideal for complicated cases such as obesity, deformities in the long bones after injuries, and complex or simple degenerations.
Robotic Assisted Knee Replacement versus Traditional Knee Replacement
Robotic-assisted knee replacement surgery is done both by the robot and the surgeon. The robotic device acts as a guide that helps your surgeon follow the best plan and aid in the accurate positioning of the implant. Like during traditional knee replacement surgery where your doctor is guided by a jig (special instruments for bone preparation) in robotic-assisted knee replacement your doctor will use the robot as an additional surgical tool. (1)
What are the benefits of Robotic-assisted Knee Replacement?
1. The implant positioning is more accurate: There is a high level of accuracy in fixing the implant. Accuracy translates to better longevity of the prosthesis which is more desirable for the younger patient (less than 60 years old). That being said it must be noted that a replacement prosthesis has a defined lifetime (10 to 20 years).
2. Better safety: There is a lesser injury to the surrounding tissues and a lesser risk of infections too which also reduces the risk of you being readmitted to the hospital.
3. Faster recovery - The incision is smaller; the pain is minimal and hence you recover faster. Recovery time following a robotic-assisted knee replacement is approximately half the time required in traditional knee arthroplasty.
4. Better functional outcome – As the knee prosthesis is placed more accurately, the patient feeling about the newly replaced knee is more natural.
5. Better Satisfaction: You can return to your daily activities faster. (2)
All thanks to technology. Robotic-assisted surgery is faster, better, safer, and less invasive compared to traditional knee replacement surgery. (3)
References:
2. https://www.orthobethesda.com/blog/robotic-vs-traditional-knee-replacement-surgery/
3. https://www.leehealth.org/our-services/general-surgery/knee-replacement-surgery-robotic
Note: All information on this website (https://www.doctor-pal.com) is published in good faith and for general information purposes only. Dr. Indranil Pal does not guarantee the completeness, reliability, or accuracy of this information. Actions based on the information contained on this website are entirely at your own risk. Doctor Pal shall not be liable for any loss and/or damages related to the use of our website. Talk to your doctor who can advise you about your health and illness.
