Knee pain makes routine activities such as climbing stairs, walking to the grocery store, and rising from a seated position more difficult. In most cases, if the patient has tried all forms of treatment (medications, physical therapy, etc.), they may reach a point where total knee replacement may be appropriate.
But where does a robot fit into the picture?
A robotic knee replacement involves two things: the skill of an experienced orthopedic surgeon and advanced computer technology. The robot does not replace the surgeon. Instead, it assists the surgeon in planning and performing the procedure with greater accuracy.
Let’s get a clearer picture of all aspects of robotic knee replacement surgery in this guide.
What is Robotic Knee Replacement?
Robotic knee replacement is a form of knee replacement in which the surgeon uses an operative robotic-assisted device to plan and execute bone preparation and placement of the artificial joint components.
Before the surgical intervention, one or more imaging modalities (such as CT scans) are used to generate a three-dimensional model of the patient’s knee. The personalized preoperative plan is always based on the individual anatomical features of the patient.
During the surgical procedure, the operative robotic-assistance system provides the surgeon with real-time positional feedback from the previously generated plan.
In addition, it provides the surgeon with a mechanical means of making controlled bone cuts and aligning the prosthesis components within the knee according to the parameters established by the original plan.
The important point to remember is simple: the robot assists, but the surgeon remains in control.
What Exactly Does the Robot Do During Surgery?
The first thing that most people think when they hear robotic knee replacement surgery is that a robot will do all the work by itself.
Modern robotic joint replacement surgery does not function like this. Instead, this assistive technology functions as an extremely sophisticated operating room assistant.
Here is typically how the technology assists in performing surgery:
Helps to Develop a Customized Pre-Surgical Plan
No two knees are alike. Each knee has unique characteristics, such as shape and structure, misalignment or other issues with the bones, and the level of damage to the joint or soft tissues (tendons, ligaments), etc.
The robotic system can assist the surgeon in developing a three-dimensional model of the knee using these anatomically specific characteristics and then utilize this model to plan:
- Amount of bone to be removed.
- Amount of preservation of existing bone.
- Positioning/Alignment of the prosthetic.
- Balance of the knee.
- Appropriate size for prosthetics.
This allows the surgical plan to be tailored to the patient’s individual anatomy.
It Guides the Surgeon During Bone Preparation
The surgical robotic system assists the surgeon by providing a visual guide during robotic knee replacement surgery. Depending on the specific type of surgical robotic system used, the system may allow the surgeon to remain within the lines established during the preoperative planning phase.
This robotic assistance can also be especially beneficial in preparing areas of the knee where damage has occurred before placing the artificial joint (implant).
It Supports Accurate Implant Positioning
Positioning implants for knee replacement is important to develop a functional, well-balanced knee with proper movement and correct alignment. A robot may assist the surgeon in placing the implant in the location planned by the surgeon.
The Surgeon Makes the Decisions
This may be the one point that is most important for a patient to understand. The robot will not make an independent decision as to how it will perform. The robot will not replace your orthopedic surgeon’s clinical judgment or experience.
The surgeon is in complete control of the robotic joint replacement surgery. They will determine all options for the case and have final responsibility for decisions regarding robotic knee replacement.
Robotic vs Manual Knee Replacement: What is the Difference?
Both traditional and technologically advanced (robotic) methods are used to relieve pain in patients with a damaged joint, regain lost mobility, and restore the ability to use the knee normally.
The primary difference between these two methodologies is based upon the technology used to plan, direct, and execute the various components of a robotically assisted total knee arthroplasty.
| Feature | Robotic Knee Replacement | Manual Knee Replacement |
| Surgical control | The surgeon remains in control with robotic assistance. | The surgeon performs the procedure using conventional instruments. |
| Planning | Uses computer-assisted 3D planning. | Uses conventional imaging and surgical planning. |
| Bone preparation | Robotic guidance can assist with planned bone cuts. | Performed using conventional surgical instruments. |
| Implant positioning | Uses computer-assisted planning and guidance. | Based on conventional surgical techniques and instruments. |
| Personalization | Planning can be tailored to individual anatomy. | Personalized planning is also possible through conventional methods. |
| Technology | Uses robotic-assisted technology. | Uses traditional surgical instruments. |
| Surgeon’s role | The surgeon remains essential throughout the robotic joint replacement surgery. | The surgeon remains essential throughout the robotic knee replacement surgery. |
It is important not to assume one approach is automatically better for every patient. The most appropriate method is based upon that patient’s unique medical history, anatomical considerations, goals of the procedure, and, ultimately, the surgeon’s own judgment.
How Does Manual Knee Replacement Work?
Traditional knee replacement surgery uses the following elements:
- Preoperative images
- Intraoperative measurements
- Specialty instruments
- The surgeon’s clinical expertise
It involves preparing the damaged knee area and positioning the implant components according to the established plan.
Manual knee replacement has also evolved into an advanced surgical technique. As such, experienced orthopedic surgeons now commonly perform this procedure on appropriately selected patients, achieving superior results.
The main difference is that robotic-assisted procedures add computer-based planning and robotic guidance to selected parts of the operation.
Is Robotic Surgery More Precise?
Robotic technology for knee replacements provides an extremely high degree of accuracy and detail in both visualization of the knee’s anatomy and the precision with which surgical instruments are manipulated.
Additionally, the robotic system can assist the surgeon with accurate placement of implants (such as the prosthesis) and accurately prepare the bone for the implant.
Accuracy does not equate to perfection. Many factors affect recovery from a total knee replacement, such as:
- Severity of the pre-existing deformity or damage to the knee joint.
- Pre-existing overall physical health.
- Strength of muscles surrounding the knee.
- Patient’s age.
- Level of physical activity.
- Technique used by the surgeon in robotic knee replacement.
- Degree of rehabilitation (i.e., how much the patient participates in their rehabilitation).
- Compliance with all postoperative instructions provided by the physician.
Ultimately, the most significant factor in achieving optimal results will be the skill of the orthopedic surgeon who performs the surgery.
What About Recovery After Robotic Knee Replacement?
Many patients ask whether robotic knee replacement surgery will automatically lead to a quicker recovery.
No two people are alike when it comes to recovering from an operation. A few patients can have good recovery, which might happen with or without robotic assistance. But one thing is for sure that no one cannot guarantee the patient’s recovery within a certain timeframe based on the technology.
Physical therapy (or physiotherapy) and rehabilitation are always mandatory after a robotic joint replacement surgery.
In this context, a recovery program could generally include:
- Movement as soon as possible.
- Strengthening exercises for muscle mass and flexibility.
- Follow-up visits with your surgeon or medical team.
- Wound care and post-operative instruction.
Robotic knee replacement aims to restore normal motion to the affected joint. This way, the patient can return to their regular activities.
Who May Be a Candidate for Robotic Knee Replacement?
Robotic knee replacement surgery is a viable option for individuals with extensive damage to their knees if they meet the criteria to receive knee-replacement surgery.
Advanced arthritis or chronic knee discomfort and stiffness may also warrant discussion regarding this form of surgery. These conditions limit an individual’s ability to perform normal day-to-day activities after undergoing satisfactory nonsurgical treatments.
However, all patients cannot undergo robotic-assisted surgery. An orthopedic surgeon will assess various elements, including but not limited to:
- The extent of your knee injury or the degree of arthritis.
- Your bone and joint structure.
- Prior surgical interventions on the affected area.
- General overall health status.
- What type of activity level would you like to achieve through surgery?
- Pre-surgery expectations.
A detailed evaluation is therefore essential before choosing the surgical approach.
Questions to Ask Your Orthopedic Surgeon
Before deciding on robotic joint replacement surgery, it would be best to ask questions when you have an appointment with your surgeon.
The following are some examples of good things to ask about your potential robotic-assisted surgery:
- Will I qualify as a good candidate for robotic knee replacement surgery?
- What is causing my knee pain?
- Is there one type of knee replacement most suited to my needs?
- How will the robot help specifically with me as a patient?
- What potential risks/complications may be present for me during robotic joint replacement surgery?
- Realistically, how much time should I expect for my rehabilitation process?
- For how long will my rehabilitation process last?
- After my recovery, what types of activities will I be able to perform again?
Asking these questions will help you make an educated decision, rather than one based solely on the fact that the technology being used is new.
Choosing the Right Surgeon Matters
Your choice of whether or not to undergo traditional or robotic knee replacement is influenced by the experience and approach that your surgeon uses. Technology supports both the preparation and the execution of surgeries. However, it does not replace a clinician’s judgment.
For example, when looking for an orthopedic doctor in Mumbai, consider finding a specialist who takes the time to hear about your symptoms and properly evaluate your knee.
You can easily make some informed decisions because these professionals provide good information about all available treatments.
The Bottom Line
Robotic knee replacement is all about selecting the right treatment for your knee instead of just looking at the newest technology. You should always approach an experienced specialist to check out your options for the surgery.
A proper assessment by a qualified orthopedic doctor in Mira Road can also help you decide which method meets your specific needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which knee replacement is better, robotic or manual?
There is no surgery that is universally better between robotic and manual. In most cases, both these surgeries have the same long-term functional results.
2. Is robotic knee replacement painful?
There is no pain in robotic knee replacement because it involves the usage of anesthesia. However, there can be mild discomfort after operation. That’s more manageable under traditional surgery.
3. How long does it take to recover from robotic knee replacement?
It takes about 3 to 6 weeks to resume basic daily activities and 3 months to feel mostly back to normal. However, full internal healing can take up to a year.
4. What is the hardest time after knee replacement?
The first two weeks is generally the hardest part after knee replacement. Most people face issues like acute pain, swelling, and sleep disruptions during this time.
5. Can I heal faster with the help of robotic knee replacement?
Yes, patients generally experience a slightly faster early recovery and less initial pain with robotic knee replacement compared to traditional surgery.
6. What are the things to keep in mind after undergoing knee replacement?
You will be mostly recommended to avoid high-impact and high-risk activities like running, jumping, and contact sports permanently. This starts right after you undergo knee replacement surgery.
7. What is the fastest way to recover from knee replacement?
You must follow the physical therapy plan properly, which is the fastest and safest way to recover from knee replacement. Move immediately after your surgery and manage your swelling actively.
