In this video, Dr. Travers, Director of the Penn Orthopaedics Robotics and Navigation Program, discusses what robotic joint replacement surgery is and how it differs from traditional joint replacement surgery, as well as the benefits of this procedure. We also hear from three patients who recount their personal experiences before and after robotic knee replacement surgery.
If you are interested in watching an actual robotic knee replacement surgery as well, you may also view our surgical video. NOTE: This video contains graphic surgical footage so viewer discretion is advised.
The knee is a hardworking joint. While you're walking, crouching, or even standing still, your knee depends on a well-tuned system of bones, ligaments, cartilage, muscles, and nerves. If an injury, arthritis, or another condition affects any of the parts of your knee, you may need a knee replacement surgery.
Precision is vital in these procedures. The more exact a surgeon's measurement tools, the better they can plan and perform your surgery.
Penn Orthopaedics' Robotic Knee Replacement Technology assists our surgeons in highly precise partial or total knee replacement surgeries. These innovative technologies take into account each person's unique anatomy for the best possible outcomes.
Meet the team of experts who specialize in robotic knee replacement
What is Robotic Knee Replacement?
A robotic knee replacement is similar to a traditional knee replacement. Your surgeon removes damaged tissue in your knee and replaces it with an artificial joint. The difference is that it's done with assistance from a robotic arm, which allows for greater precision. In more complex cases, a robotic-assisted knee replacement offers a better balance in the soft tissues around your knee, and better aligns the joint.
If you're having a robotic-assisted knee replacement surgery, you don't have to prepare any differently than you would for a conventional surgery.
Your surgeon will discuss all knee replacement options available to you, including whether you are a good candidate for robotic joint replacement.
How do Robotic Knee Replacements Work?
Penn Orthopaedics has cutting-edge robotic tools that are used to help your surgeon create an ideal surgical plan for you, which optimizes every step of your surgery. The Mako or ROSA surgical system can be used in both partial knee replacement and total knee replacement surgeries.
Before a robotic knee replacement surgery, you'll get specialized CAT scans that create a 3-D image of your knee joint, bone structure, and surrounding tissues. This detailed picture helps your surgeon plan every step of your surgery. Cuts can be made with precision to the millimeter, picking the right implant size and positioning.
At the beginning of a robotic-assisted surgery, your surgeon will use tracking pins to help the robot confirm that it received correct size and positioning information from your CAT scans. Then, the robotic arm positions itself and your surgeon uses the hand-held tool to perform your knee replacement. The tool will guide the surgeon throughout the procedure, enhancing their experience and skills.
Who is a Candidate for Robotic Knee Replacement?
If you are a candidate for traditional knee replacement, it is likely you are a candidate for robotic-assisted knee replacement, as well. It is important that you talk with your doctor to see if surgery — or other non-surgical options to treat knee pain — are best for you.
Robotic knee replacements are ideal for even the most complex knee joint disease. This includes patients who have:
- Deformities in the femur after an injury
- Complex degeneration
- Hardware from previous surgeries
What are the Advantages of Robotic Knee Replacement Surgery?
There are several advantages of robotic-assisted knee replacement surgery when compared with traditional surgery. Advantages include:
- Enhanced surgical planning: Specialized 3-D images are taken in preparation for and during surgery. These images help your surgeon more accurately plan the optimal type and placement of your replacement joint to ensure the right size and fit.
- Greater precision: Robotic technologies enhance your orthopaedic surgeon's expertise for more precise planning, tissue removal and implant placement.
- Optimal joint alignment: With robotic technology, your surgeon is able to better align and position your knee implant. This helps ensure a more natural-feeling joint replacement and create less friction and wear on your new joint.
Traditional vs. Robotic Surgery for Knee Replacements
Robotic-assisted knee replacement surgery is not done by a robot alone. Instead, it acts as a guide, helping your surgeon follow the plan laid out in advance.
Like during traditional surgery, your orthopaedic surgeon is in control, however, they use the robot as an additional surgical tool. The robot enhances your surgeon's skills during all stages of your surgery to help deliver the best possible outcomes.
Robotic Knee Replacement Recovery Process
Robotic joint replacement uses more precise incisions and helps achieve optimal positioning.
After your surgery, your surgeon and the rest of your care team will monitor your progress, help to relieve discomfort, and chart a course for your at-home recovery.
Learn what to expect during recovery and rehabilitation after knee replacement surgery, including pain management.