Robotic Total knee replacement

What is a Total Knee Replacement?

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 consists of 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.

What Are the Goals of Total Knee Replacement Surgery?

The primary goal of total knee replacement is to relieve pain and improve mobility. For most patients, the procedure effectively eliminates arthritis pain, enabling them to return to daily activities. While the artificial knee performs well, it may not feel exactly like a natural knee. Most patients report being aware of the artificial joint but find that the improvement in mobility and pain relief significantly outweighs this minor adjustment.

What Patients Are Considered for Total Knee Replacement?

Patients who are considered for TKR generally experience chronic knee pain, swelling, stiffness, and decreased mobility that do not respond to conservative treatments like medications, physical therapy, or lifestyle changes. If knee pain severely affects the ability to perform everyday tasks, knee replacement may be the best option.

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.

How Does the Procedure Work?

Preoperative Planning

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 minimizes 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 minimize 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 personalized 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