What is robotic-assisted knee replacement surgery?

A total knee replacement (TKR), or knee arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure that involves replacing the damaged or worn-out knee joint with an artificial one. The knee joint is made up of the following: the femur (thigh bone), tibia (shin bone) and the patella (kneecap). During TKR, the damaged cartilage and bone are removed and replaced with smooth, durable components made of metal and plastic. This procedure is typically recommended for patients with severe knee arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis or traumatic injury.

 

 

Understanding Robotic-Assisted Knee Replacement Surgery

 

 

What is Robotic-Assisted Knee Replacement?

 

Robotic-assisted knee replacement is an advanced surgical approach that improves the accuracy and precision of traditional knee replacement surgeries. By using robotic technology, surgeons can plan and execute the procedure with enhanced detail, tailoring the surgery to the patient's specific anatomy.

 

 

Preoperative planning

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• Imaging scans (X-rays or CT scans) create a 3D model of your knee.

 

• This model allows your surgeon to precisely assess the extent of arthritis and plan the optimal placement and alignment of the knee implant.

 

 

​ Surgical procedure

 

• The robotic system assists in guiding surgical instruments with exceptional precision, ensuring that only damaged tissue is removed while preserving healthy bone.

 

• The implant is positioned according to the preoperative plan, ensuring it aligns properly for optimal movement and longevity.

 

• Real-time feedback from the robotic system ensures the procedure is carried out with minimal error.

 

 

Benefits of Robotic-Assisted Knee Replacement

 

• Enhanced precision
  Robotic technology allows for highly accurate implant placement, crucial for maintaining the natural movement and functionality of the knee.

 

• Personalised surgery
  The procedure is tailored to your unique anatomy, ensuring the best possible fit and function for your new knee.

 

• Minimally invasive
  Smaller incisions result in less tissue damage, reduced scarring, and a decreased risk of infection.

 

• Faster recovery
  Patients often experience less postoperative pain and can return to normal activities sooner than with traditional knee replacement methods.

 

• Improved implant longevity
  Precise alignment minimises wear and tear on the implant, potentially extending its lifespan.

 

• Lower risk of component malposition
  The robotic system reduces human error, lowering the likelihood of surgical complications during and after the procedure.

 

Risks of Robotic-Assisted Knee Replacement

Though robotic-assisted knee replacement offers significant benefits, it is still a major surgical procedure, and, like all surgeries, carries potential risks. These include:

• Infection
  As with any surgical procedure, there is a risk of infection, particularly at the incision site or within the knee joint itself.

 

• Blood clots
  Blood clots, including deep vein thrombosis (DVT), can form after surgery. These clots can travel to the lungs, leading to a life-threatening pulmonary embolism (PE).

 

• Implant issues
  While rare, there is a possibility that the knee implant could become loose or wear down over time, potentially requiring revision surgery.

 

• Nerve or blood vessel damage
  Although the precision of robotic surgery helps minimise this risk, there remains a small chance of injury to surrounding nerves or blood vessels.

 

• Post-surgery pain
  Some patients may experience ongoing or new pain after surgery. This can result from misalignment, implant issues, or soft tissue healing

 

 

 

Is Robotic-Assisted Knee Replacement right for you?

 

Robotic-assisted knee replacement is particularly beneficial for patients with moderate to severe knee arthritis who have not found relief from conservative treatments. If you are considering this procedure, your surgeon will assess your medical history, current knee condition, and lifestyle needs to determine whether robotic-assisted surgery is the best choice.

 

With the enhanced precision and personalised approach of robotic technology, many patients achieve excellent outcomes with faster recovery times and fewer complications. However, it’s important to thoroughly discuss the potential risks with your surgeon to make an informed decision about the best treatment for your knee pain.

 

About Mr Khalid Malik

 

Mr Khalid Malik is an experienced consultant orthopaedic surgeon with a focus on providing high-quality, patient-centred care. Specialising in robotic-assisted hip and knee replacement surgery, he utilises the latest technology to achieve optimal outcomes for his patients.