How Robotics-Assisted Knee Replacement Works
Robotics-assisted knee replacement utilizes a robotic arm to help guide the surgeon through the process. The patient’s knee will have been mapped using a CT scan, and recreated as a 3D model. This allows the surgeon to be extremely precise when removing damaged cartilage and other tissue, and when placing the implant into the knee joint.
The robotic arm doesn’t actually perform the surgery. Instead, it acts as a visual aid for the surgeon, who can see the original shape of the knee and keep it as close to that shape as possible during the surgery.
Benefits of Robotics-Assisted Knee Replacement
Traditional total knee replacements generally mean significant downtime, up to 4-6 weeks of being unable to do regular activities like driving a car or going to work. With robotics-assisted implant placement, recovery time can be cut by as much as half.
Thanks to the ability to customize the experience, patients also suffer less joint awareness during recovery. With traditional surgery, the joint can feel awkward and unfamiliar, causing stiffness, numbness, or pain. The natural placement achieved with robotics assistance can lead to a more familiar and natural feeling joint post-surgery.
Candidates for Robotics-Assisted Knee Replacement
As with any surgery, risks can be enhanced if you have certain health issues. Your doctor will go over your options with you and help you make an informed decision.
One of the biggest reasons many doctors advise against knee replacement is due to patient age; a traditional knee replacement only lasts 10-20 years. Patients under 60 are rarely advised to get a knee replacement, as it might wear out before they are done with it, and surgery risks increase with age.
One of the advantages of robotics-assisted surgery is that the implant is placed very precisely, which can potentially help the implant last longer. This can make it more palatable for younger patients to receive knee replacements.
Choosing a Surgeon
Dr. Strasburger is one of few surgeons in the state of Nebraska offering the revolutionary CORI◊ robotics-assisted surgical system to patients. Learn more about this system today. ◊ is a trademark of Smith & Nephew
For more information or to schedule a consultation, visit strasburgerorthopaedics.com