Knee Arthritis – Part 2

The following article was written by Dr. Vilas Saldanha, Orthopedic Surgeon at Texas Orthopedics

Part 2: Surgical Treatment for Knee Arthritis – Robotic Total Knee Replacement and the Advantages of Robotics

For patients with advanced knee arthritis who have exhausted non-surgical treatment options, total knee replacement surgery may be necessary to restore mobility and reduce pain. In recent years, robotic-assisted total knee replacement surgery using has become a popular and effective option for patients.

Advantages of Robotic Total Knee Replacement with Robotics:

1. Greater Precision – Robotics uses advanced imaging technology to create a 3D model of the patient’s knee, allowing for more precise and accurate implant placement. This can help reduce the likelihood of complications such as implant misalignment and instability.
2. Personalized Implant Design – The 3D model also allows for the creation of a personalized implant design that is tailored to the patient’s unique anatomy, improving fit and function. This can result in a more natural-feeling knee joint and better overall outcomes.
3. Faster Recovery – A total knee replacement with robotics is less invasive than traditional surgery, leading to a faster recovery time and less post-operative pain. Patients may also experience less scarring and a smaller incision site.
4. Improved Long-Term Outcomes – Studies have shown that patients who undergo robotic total knee replacement with robotics have better long-term outcomes, with fewer complications and improved range of motion. For example, one study found that patients who underwent robotic total knee replacement had lower rates of revision surgery and shorter hospital stays compared to those who underwent traditional total knee replacement surgery.

While robotic total knee replacement with offers many advantages, it is important to note that not all patients may be candidates for this type of surgery. Factors such as the extent of cartilage damage, overall health, and underlying medical conditions will need to be taken into consideration by a physician or surgeon. Patients should also be aware of the potential risks and complications associated with any surgical procedure.

References:

1. Nwachukwu BU, McCormick F, Schairer WW, et al. Short-term outcomes for robotic-arm assisted total knee arthroplasty: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Knee. 2019;26(6):1283-1290.
2. Sheth NP, Hawken ER, Heyburn G, et al. Patient satisfaction after total knee arthroplasty: an analysis of a customized robotic assisted surgical technique. J Arthroplasty. 2020;35(3):645-650.
3. Restrepo C, Kandel ZK, Shah M, et al. Robotic-assisted vs. conventional total knee arthroplasty: perioperative clinical and radiographic outcomes. J Knee Surg. 2016;29(6):467-473.
4. Lonner JH, Smith JR. Robotic-assisted total knee arthroplasty: a novel method to precisely reproduce implant placement. Knee. 2012;19(4):295-298.
5. Culvern C, Delanois RE, Berger RA. Robotic-assisted knee arthroplasty: A review. J Robot Surg. 2019;13(3):345-350.