Table of Content
2. What is a robotic knee replacement?
3. When do you require robotic knee replacement surgery?
4. What is the time duration of a robotic knee replacement?
5. Cost of a robotic knee replacement
6. What are the factors that influence the duration of a surgery?
7. Advantages of a robotic knee replacement
8. Comparison of the robotic and traditional knee replacement
9. What are the steps involved in a robotic knee replacement?
10. What can you expect from the best robotic knee replacement surgeon?
11. Conclusion
12. Faqs
Robotic Knee Replacement: What You Need To Know?
Nowadays, the term robotic surgery is very popular. Gone are the days when surgeons relied on traditional surgery. Today, they are implementing robotics to ensure a successful surgery and prevent anything from going wrong. Even for knee replacements, doctors are using this technique. When it comes to a transformative enhancement in orthopaedic care, robotic knee replacement takes the forefront. The reputable surgeons implement this technology. The technology is responsible for delivering accurate operations. This results in improved results and shorter healing periods than traditional knee replacement methods. The article investigates the essential factors which patients need to understand.
What is a robotic knee replacement?
Another name for robotic knee replacement is robot-assisted total knee arthroplasty. It refers to an enhanced surgical technique where robotic systems help guide the orthopedic surgeon when it comes to replacing the knee joint. In contrast to traditional methods where the accuracy depends on the surgeon's manual skill, robotic technology is a combination of sophisticated imaging and computers. It facilitates the best possible implant positioning that matches the patient's anatomy in every detail. The surgical team creates a three-dimensional knee replacement model from preoperative CT or MRI scans to plan the surgery. This model equips surgical teams with advanced capabilities to perform bone cuts and implant positioning with exceptional precision. The robotic arm delivers live operational data to the surgeon while preventing unauthorised surgical movements. Undoubtedly, the surgical procedure achieves high-precision results which enhances alignment. Additionally, it can reduce tissue damage, and support rapid patient recovery.
The surgical team creates a three-dimensional knee replacement model from preoperative CT or MRI scans to plan the surgery. This model equips surgical teams with advanced capabilities to perform bone cuts and implant positioning with exceptional precision. The robotic arm delivers live operational data to the surgeon while preventing unauthorised surgical movements. Undoubtedly, the surgical procedure achieves high-precision results which enhances alignment. Additionally, it can reduce tissue damage, and support rapid patient recovery.
When do you require robotic knee replacement surgery?
Here are the situations in which you may require robotic knee replacement surgery.
Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is the typical cause of patients having robotic knee replacement. It is a degenerative joint disorder in which the protective cartilage that acts as a cushion around the knee joint slowly wears off. In severe osteoarthritis, the damage to the knee joint is usually uneven. So a patient suffering from osteoarthritis must avail of this surgery.
Rheumatoid arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks the synovial membrane lining the joints, leading to chronic inflammation. A robotic knee replacement enables gradual bone work and reduced surgical trauma. Patients with inflammatory arthritis can expect improved joint stability.
Post-traumatic arthritis
Fractures, ligament tears, and meniscus injuries are the root causes of post-traumatic arthritis. Sometimes injuries disrupt normal joint mechanics even after healing. It can cause an early cartilage breakdown. In this case, a robotic knee replacement becomes a boon, as it tailors implant placement and achieves balanced ligament function.
Serious joint deformity
Severe knee deformities result from the joint becoming visibly misaligned over time due to arthritis or injury. Fixing deformity is a very delicate work of art. Robotic technology obtains alignment measurements to the millimetre level. Moreover, it can fix the deformity and preserve healthy tissue.
Mobility loss
Loss of mobility is a stage of knee disease so advanced that one suffers pain and stiffness. In this case, daily activities are strictly prohibited. Patients face severe difficulties with climbing stairs and performing daily routine activities. Robotic surgery allows proper joint alignment to be restored and post-operative pain to be reduced.
What is the time duration of a robotic knee replacement?
The time required for a robotic knee replacement is generally 1.5 hours. Moreover, it can go up to 2.5 hours. These factors decide the time of this surgery.
Pre-surgery preparation
Before the operation starts, the medical team first goes through a setup phase. The patient is correctly positioned and provided with anesthesia. After that the body part where the operation would take place is sterilised well. The preparation phase typically takes about 30 to 45 minutes.
Mapping and planning
Pre-operative imaging is one of the most distinctive criteria for robotic knee replacement surgery. A 3D model of the knee is created with the pre-operative imaging. A CT scan is the best epitome of it. With the help of the robotic system, the surgeon maps the area to eliminate a damaged bone. With proper planning, the step takes 30 minutes.
Placing the implant
The surgeon implements a robotic arm to eliminate the damaged tissue. After that, the implant is properly placed, which is the most important part of robotic knee replacement. Given the complexity, the procedure lasts 1 hour.
After surgery care
Once the implants are in place, the incision is closed with sutures and then covered with a sterile dressing. This part of the procedure, along with patient stabilisation, takes about 30 minutes.
Cost of a robotic knee replacement
Before opting for the robotic knee replacement, you need to be aware of the cost. We will present a table showing the cost of surgery in cities such as Bangalore, Chennai, Hyderabad, and Pune. Additionally, we will inform you of the costs for various types of replacement.
Cost in four major cities:
City-wise Robotic Knee Replacement Price Range
| City | Price Range (Min - Max) |
|---|---|
| Bangalore | ₹2,80,500 – ₹3,22,000 |
| Chennai | ₹2,80,500 – ₹3,22,000 |
| Hyderabad | ₹2,80,500 – ₹3,22,000 |
| Pune | ₹2,80,500 – ₹3,22,000 |
Cost of Various Types of Robotic Knee Replacement Surgery
| Types of Treatment | Average Cost in India | Minimum Cost in India | Maximum Cost in India |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unilateral Total Knee Replacement (1 Knee) | ₹1,75,000 | ₹1,30,000 | ₹2,50,000 |
| Bilateral Total Knee Replacement (Both Knees) | ₹3,40,000 | ₹2,60,000 | ₹4,80,000 |
| Partial Knee Replacement | ₹1,50,000 | ₹1,20,000 | ₹2,00,000 |
| Robotic-Assisted Knee Replacement (1 Knee) | ₹2,50,000 | ₹2,00,000 | ₹3,20,000 |
| Revision Knee Replacement Surgery | ₹2,80,000 | ₹2,20,000 | ₹3,80,000 |
What are the factors that influence the duration of a surgery?
Here are the factors that influence the duration of a robotic knee replacement surgery:
Anatomy
Knee anatomy varies from patient to patient. Hence, complicated cases with severe deformities take longer. It is one of the most crucial factors that influence the duration of a robotic knee replacement surgery.
Robotic system
It often happens that the robotic system type also influences the surgery. An enhanced system will enable faster and more precise mapping.
Surgeon’s expertise
Undoubtedly, the surgeon’s expertise also plays a pivotal role. The majority of the reputable surgeons are familiar with robotic technologies. They ensure the procedure remains smoother and that no compromises are made in accuracy.
Replacing bilateral knee
The robotic knee replacement of a single knee takes less time. On the other hand, when both knees are replaced, the procedure can take 5 hours.
Advantages of a robotic knee replacement
The rising number of robotic knee replacement surgeries in India is due to the numerous advantages of this procedure. These advantages are why people are opting for robotics over a traditional knee surgery.
Advanced accuracy and implant alignment
One of the most crucial benefits of robotic technology is its ability to enhance the alignment and balance of the implants. The robotic system can use patient-specific 3D planning. It is done to ensure proper implant positioning, which is an important factor in their longevity.
Lesser tissue trauma and blood loss
There is a possibility of less muscle and tissue disruption. Thanks to the minimally invasive techniques and smaller incisions offered by robotic knee replacement surgeries. There is a lower risk of complications and reduced blood loss during surgery.
Quick recovery and shorter hospital stay
Without any doubt, the procedure is less invasive and more accurate. Faster post-operative recovery and shorter hospital stays are the major outcomes of this surgery. Patients can walk and return to their normal lives.
Higher success and better implant life
The clinical results indicate that the robotic methods can increase patient satisfaction and reduce the chances of revision surgery. It became possible due to proper fit and alignment. Some studies have shown a higher success rate than that of conventional methods.
Tailored surgery
The robotic knee replacement surgeries support a tailored surgical plan. It is based on anatomy. Moreover, the surgery is tailored to the patient's needs and requirements. It is the best benefit that cannot be ignored.
Comparison of the robotic and traditional knee replacement
The robotic knee replacement is much more advanced and better than the traditional one.
Robotic vs Traditional Knee Replacement Comparison
| Feature | Robotic Knee Replacement | Traditional Knee Replacement |
|---|---|---|
| Precision | Computer-guided, precise | Manual, Dependent on the surgeon |
| Incision Size | Smaller, minimally invasive | Larger |
| Blood Loss | Lower | Moderate |
| Recovery Time | Faster | Standard timeline |
| Implant Longevity | Potentially longer | Standard |
| Pain and Swelling | Less post-operative pain | More typical discomfort |
What are the steps involved in a robotic knee replacement?
These are the major steps involved in a robotic knee replacement surgery:
Evaluation
The patient is evaluated pre-operatively, and a complete assessment is done. This includes taking the patient’s history, performing a clinical examination, and imaging the knee using either a CT scan or an MRI. The images are then used to generate a 3D model.
Surgical plan
The surgeon also plans the accurate bone cutting and implant size. It is done using a 3D knee model. To decide on a configuration that balances flexibility and durability, the robotic software enables simulation of implant placement.
Surgery
The majority of the decisions are taken on the day of surgery. The surgeon administers anaesthesia and makes mini incisions around the knee. Moreover, the surgeon ensures that no compromises are made during the surgery.
Implant placement and closing
After bone preparation is complete, the selected prosthetic components are implanted. The joint is then verified for alignment and stability before the incision is closed. It is the second-last step of robotic knee replacement surgery.
Rehabilitation
Certainly, a few patients remain in the hospital after surgery. With physical therapy, there is a chance for early mobility. Within a few weeks, they return to their normal activities.
What can you expect from the best robotic knee replacement surgeon?
These are a few things that you can expect from an expert surgeon practicing robotic knee replacement. For these things, patients visit them for the surgery.
Expertise
These surgeons have performed multiple surgeries, and they are experts. The majority of the treatments have been successful. The surgery ensures 100% accuracy and patient satisfaction.
Comprehensive care
Reputable surgeons prioritise patient-centred care. They explain every procedure to their patients. This is how the patients are satisfied. Therefore, you can have faith in them and see how well they offer fair treatment.
Enhanced technology
One of the most crucial factors is that surgeons implement advanced technology during surgery. This makes the treatment easier. Moreover, the patients can expect a speedy recovery.
International recognition
Nowadays, surgeons are internationally accredited. It indicates they can attract patients from around the world. They have made significant contributions to orthopaedic surgery.
Conclusion
Therefore, robotic knee replacement dramatically changes how surgeons perform knee surgeries. It allows them to target the problem areas precisely. At the same time, they personalise the treatment for the patient. Additionally, patients can look forward to faster recovery periods from this surgery.
