Robotic-assisted knee replacement surgery: Everything you need to know

Robotic-assisted knee replacement surgery is an advanced surgical procedure that utilises robotic systems to assist your orthopaedic surgeon in achieving exceptional precision.

Mr Arijit Ghosh, leading consultant orthopaedic knee surgeon, provides an expert insight into the indications, procedure, safety, and recovery aspects of robotic-assisted knee replacement.

What are the indications for robotic-assisted knee replacement?

Robotic-assisted knee replacement is typically recommended for patients with severe knee pain or dysfunction caused by joint damage that significantly impacts their quality of life. Reasons for this joint damage may include osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, post-traumatic arthritis, or prior knee injuries.

Candidates for robotic-assisted knee replacement undergo a thorough evaluation by an orthopaedic surgeon, who will assess the extent of joint damage, overall health, and suitability for robotic-assisted surgery. This procedure is particularly beneficial for patients who require greater surgical precision due to anatomical complexities or alignment issues in the knee joint.

How is robotic-assisted knee replacement performed?

Robotic-assisted knee replacement uses a robotic system to assist your surgeon in achieving precise implant placement and alignment. Before the surgery, detailed imaging (often, CT scans) is used to generate a 3D model of your knee joint. This helps your surgeon to carefully plan the best approach for the procedure and tailor the implant placement to fit your unique anatomy.

On the day of surgery, your surgeon will start by making a small incision over the knee joint, through which the robotic tools will be inserted, to expose the damaged parts of the knee. The robotic arm will then assist your surgeon in making precise bone cuts to only remove the damaged cartilage and parts of the bone in the knee joint.

Once the bone surfaces are prepared, your surgeon will place the prosthetic components into the knee joint, which may include the femoral, tibial, or patellar component. The robotic system will ensure that these components are accurately positioned to achieve optimal implant alignment for maximum function and longevity.

Lastly, your surgeon will check the knee for proper movement, range of motion, and stability, using real-time feedback from the robotic system. Once the prosthesis is properly positioned, your surgeon will close the incision using sutures or staples, and apply a sterile dressing to the site.

The duration of the surgery will take around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on the complexity of the case. Your surgeon will remain in full control throughout the process, using the robotic system as a guide to enhance precision and improve outcomes.

Is robotic-assisted knee replacement safer than traditional methods?

Robotic-assisted knee replacement is considered a safer and more reliable option in many cases. The precision enabled by the robotic system reduces the likelihood of errors in implant placement and alignment, which can lead to better long-term outcomes, as well as improved longevity and performance of the implant.

The minimally invasive approach facilitated by the robotic system can also lead to minimal damage to soft tissues during surgery, which translates to reduced postoperative pain, lower risk of complications, and a quicker recovery for many patients.

However, it’s important to note that the success of any surgical procedure, including robotic-assisted knee replacement, depends heavily on the expertise of your surgeon and your adherence to postoperative care.

What is the recovery time after robotic-assisted knee replacement?

Recovery after robotic-assisted knee replacement tends to be quicker and less painful than traditional surgery, largely due to the precision of the procedure and the reduced trauma to surrounding tissues. You can expect to stay in the hospital for 1-2 days post-surgery, during which physiotherapy will begin almost immediately to restore mobility, strength, and range of motion.

By 3 weeks, most patients will be able to walk without assistance and resume light activities. More strenuous activities, such as swimming or static cycling, can usually commence around week 6. Full recovery, including return to preoperative strength levels, will take anywhere from 3-6 months.

Robotic-assisted knee replacement is designed to optimise implant alignment, which can directly influence how long the implant lasts. Most knee implants will last 15-20 years, and may endure even longer with proper care and use. To maximise the lifespan of your implant, you should maintain a healthy weight, stay active, and avoid high-impact activities.

Book an appointment with Mr Arijit Ghosh via his Top Doctors profile today.