University Orthopaedic Associates (UOA) is pleased to announce it now offers robotic-assisted total knee replacement surgery as one of its many orthopaedic treatment options. This will be made possible on behalf of a surgical robot assistant now available at the University Center for Ambulatory Surgery (UCAS), UOA’s on-site surgery center.

Here’s more about robotic-assisted total knee replacement surgery and how to request an appointment with UOA if you need treatment for an orthopaedic injury.

What Is Robotic-Assisted Total Knee Replacement?

Robotic-assisted total knee replacement is a minimally invasive surgery in which the entire knee is replaced with an artificial joint. It involves the use of a robotic assistant, which is controlled by the orthopaedic surgeon performing the surgery. The robot can perform parts of the surgery with exact precision, which reduces the risk of complications and helps ensure the artificial joint is properly and accurately placed.

This surgery is typically performed to reduce pain and restore mobility in patients with osteoarthritis of the knee. It may also be used to treat rheumatoid arthritis and knee injuries, among many other knee conditions.

How Is It Performed?

Robotic-assisted total knee replacement is performed similarly to minimally invasive total knee arthroplasty, except the robot takes over some of the duties usually performed by an orthopaedic surgeon’s hand. Dr. Stephen Kayiaros, a joint replacement surgeon at UOA, has received extensive training on the procedure and performed the first surgery at UOA in October.

First, the knee is placed in a bent position, and your surgeon makes an incision on the knee to expose and access the joint. Next, your surgeon uses the robotic arm to remove damaged bone and tissues and replaces them with an artificial joint. Your surgeon will use an intraoperative 3D generated model of your knee to help guide the robot through the procedure.

When surgery is finished, you are monitored for a brief period and encouraged to walk on your new joint before going home to relax. Benefits of robotic joint replacement include less pain and scarring as well as shorter downtime and recovery periods.

Where Is UOA Joint Replacement Performed?

UOA will perform robotic-assisted total knee replacement surgery as a same-day outpatient procedure at UCAS. UOA is one of the few orthopaedic practices with its own on-site surgery center where outpatient procedures can be performed.

The new surgical robot at UCAS may also be used to perform other orthopaedic surgeries, including hip replacement surgery. The joint replacement surgeons at UOA can determine whether you’re an ideal candidate for robotic-assisted joint replacement surgery based on your condition and medical history.

University Orthopaedic Associates offers a wide range of orthopaedic services and treatments. Contact UOA today at (732) 537-0909 to request an appointment if you have an orthopaedic injury or condition and would like to know more about your treatment options.