Robotic Knee Replacement Surgery
Robotic Knee Replacement Surgery : Knee replacement surgery is one of the most frequently used treatment methods for advanced joint damage. Although the success rate of the surgery is quite high, some patients may experience issues such as joint stiffness, early loosening, or a sense of unnatural walking after the procedure.
In traditional knee replacement surgery, surgeons use mechanical tools to place the prosthesis in the knee joint. However, robotic-assisted knee replacement surgery has emerged as a significant innovation in recent years. With this cutting-edge technology, potential mechanical issues in patients can be minimized.
What is Robotic-Assisted Knee Replacement?
Robotic-assisted knee replacement is a technology that enables surgeons to use a robotic system during knee replacement surgery. This system tracks the surgeon’s hand movements and makes highly precise cuts, ensuring the accurate placement of the prosthesis. The robotic system creates three-dimensional images of the patient’s knee joint and guides the surgeon throughout the procedure. It operates using a robotic arm and a pair of advanced cameras that track both the movement of your knee and the surgeon’s actions.
During the surgery, the robotic system first determines the most appropriate prosthesis size and placement based on pre-operative X-rays and CT scans. Then, throughout the procedure, it maps the bones and ligaments of your knee, guiding the surgeon to ensure optimal placement. The robot does not perform the surgery itself, but the robotic arm actively works alongside the surgeon to help minimize potential errors during the operation.
How is Robotic-Assisted Knee Replacement Applied?
The first phase is the planning stage. Imaging studies, including X-rays and CT scans, are conducted for the individual who will undergo knee replacement surgery, and pre-operative planning is done. This process takes approximately one week. During this time, your images are uploaded to a specialized program, and the most suitable prosthesis size and placement for your knee are planned accordingly.
The second phase is the surgical stage. In this phase, the soft tissue around your knee is introduced to the system based on the uploaded visual plans, and final adjustments are made. The surgeon then opens your knee, as in a traditional knee replacement, and, with the robot’s assistance, makes the appropriate cuts before placing the prosthesis.
What Are the Advantages of Robotic Knee Replacement?
The most significant advantage of robotic knee replacement is the precision during surgery. The robotic arm allows for the prosthesis to be placed with millimeter accuracy, ensuring a longer lifespan for the prosthesis and better functional outcomes for the patient.
Due to increased precision and reduced tissue damage in robotic knee replacements, patients experience shorter recovery times, and their rehabilitation is generally less painful and easier. This facilitates a quicker return to daily life.
Every patient’s anatomy and knee structure are different. With robotic systems, these differences are taken into account before surgery, and necessary adjustments are made to ensure that the prosthesis is placed according to your unique knee and muscle structure. Essentially, it is like having a custom-tailored suit.
Who Are Suitable Candidates for Robotic Knee Replacement?
Patients who are suitable for traditional knee replacement are generally also candidates for robotic knee replacement. This method is especially recommended for patients with complex knee deformities, those who have previously undergone knee surgery, or individuals with advanced joint degeneration.
What is the Recovery Time After Robotic Knee Replacement?
Patients typically become pain-free and return to their daily lives within 2 to 6 weeks after robotic knee replacement. Post-operative physical therapy programs can shorten this duration. Many patients report a more natural feeling in their knee after the robotic procedure and often forget they have a prosthesis after about three months.
Is Robotic Knee Replacement a Minimally Invasive Surgery?
Many of our patients mistakenly believe that robotic procedures involve no incisions or smaller incisions. However, this is not the case. The incision size in robotic knee replacement is similar to that of traditional knee replacement surgery. In fact, due to the need for optical tracking markers, there may be two additional small incisions on both the upper and lower leg.
Are There Risks Associated with Robotic Knee Replacement Surgery?
Like any surgical procedure, there are some risks associated with robotic knee replacement. These can include complications such as infection, blood clots, and nerve damage. However, the precision of the robotic system can help reduce these risks.
Robotic-assisted knee replacement is a modern surgical technique that offers significant advantages for both the surgeon and the patient in treating knee joint problems. This method not only increases the surgical success rate but also shortens the recovery process for patients. For those considering knee replacement surgery, robotic-assisted options stand out as an innovative alternative worth evaluating.
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