Robotic-assisted total knee replacement surgery is a safe and minimally invasive alternative to traditional open knee replacement. This highly individualized treatment is performed by an orthopaedic surgeon and a computer-navigated robotic assistant to ensure precision, accuracy and the best possible outcome.
Here’s how this surgery is performed and how to request an appointment with University Orthopaedic Associates (UOA) to determine whether you’re an ideal candidate.
What Is Robotic-Assisted Total Knee Replacement Surgery?
Robotic-assisted total knee replacement surgery is a treatment option for those who have severe, debilitating pain in the knee, such as that caused by osteoarthritis and degeneration of knee cartilage. During this procedure, both sides of the knee joint are resurfaced with a prosthetic implant. Damaged tissues in the knee are removed and replaced with artificial components.
The goal of surgery is to reduce pain, increase mobility, enhance your quality of life and get you back to your usual activities within a short period. Robotic-assisted total knee replacement provides data on patients’ specific knee anatomy never before available to surgeons that empowers them to minimize soft tissue trauma and achieve a perfectly balanced knee.
The robotic arm, or assistant, used during this surgery has the ability to carefully and precisely perform the bone cuts to ensure optimally aligned implanted components of the artificial joint. It also provides orthopaedic surgeons with visual and tactile feedback as well as multiple data points to be able to fine tune the placement of the prosthesis within ½ degree of accuracy. Robotic-assisted knee replacement has been proven to be safe and efficient for patients.
Greater precision, optimal joint alignment, reduced risk of complications and a faster return to usual activities are some of the many benefits associated with robotic-assisted total knee replacement surgery at UOA.
How Is It Performed?
Robotic-assisted total knee replacement with UOA is typically performed in an outpatient setting at the University Center for Ambulatory Surgery (UCAS). Overnight hospitalization is not required, given the minimally invasive nature of this procedure.
During surgery, a computer generates a 3D model of your knee anatomy using surgeon collected anatomic landmarks. The data is then transmitted to the robotic arm so as to help your orthopaedic surgeon map out every step of the surgery and select the appropriate implant sizes.
Next, your surgeon will make an incision over your knee, into which the robotic arm and other surgical instruments can be inserted to perform the procedure. A camera and GPS trackers are used to guide the placement of the implant into the knee. After your knee is replaced, your incision will be closed, and you will be taken to a recovery room to be monitored for a few hours before going home.
Who Is a Candidate for Robotic-Assited Total Knee Replacement?
Ideal candidates for robotic-assisted total knee replacement are those whose knee pain persists after trying nonsurgical treatments such as exercise, bracing and medications. This surgery may also be ideal for those who want a minimally invasive alternative to traditional surgery.
Robotic-assisted total knee replacement surgery may be used to treat the following conditions:
- Osteoarthritis of the knee
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Arthritis from a knee injury
- Injuries, such as those from sports or auto accidents
- Cartilage damage
- Avascular necrosis
- Bone dysplasia
If you need treatment for severe knee pain, an orthopaedic joint replacement surgeon at UOA can perform an exam, review your medical history and discuss robotic total knee replacement and other treatment options.
University Orthopaedic Associates offers a wide range of orthopaedic services. Contact UOA today at (732) 537-0909 to request an appointment if you have an orthopaedic injury or condition.
