For those dealing with end-stage, the best way to get back on their feet is to undergo a knee replacement surgery - especially when a degenerative disease of a joint occurs, leading to debilitating pain and loss of movement. With the advancement in technology, knee replacement surgery has now become robotic - and is among the most common operations performed throughout orthopedics worldwide. And even though it offers numerous benefits, experts say it is essential for patients to understand how it works, identify who qualifies as a suitable candidate, and have realistic expectations regarding post-operative recovery and outcomes.
Robotic-assisted knee replacement is primarily meant to replace damaged surfaces of the knee joint and create an artificial joint out of metal or plastic. These artificial materials are kept smooth so that joint motion can occur and remain pain-free. “It provides a surgical alternative that fuses computer-assisted technology and the orthopedic surgeon’s expertise to maximize preoperative planning and help develop a precise surgical procedure,” said Dr. Anuj Jain, Sr. Consultant – Orthopedics, Kailash Hospital and Neuro Institute.
While it does carry risks like any other surgical procedure, serious complications are very rare given the care taken and experience of our surgeons. Read on to know about a few very important things every patient must know before planning a surgery.
The most common misunderstanding regarding robotic-assisted knee replacements is that a robot actually performs the surgery itself. The truth is that all surgical procedures are pre-determined by the orthopedic surgeon and are actually conducted by the orthopedic surgeon. “The robotic-assisted technology is used solely to assist the surgeon in making more accurate bone preparation and placement of implants while the surgeon maintains full control of the operation,” said Dr Jain.
According to Dr Jain, robotic-assisted technology allows for the most precise alignment of knee implants that is tailored to the specific anatomical structure of each patient. Therefore, having properly aligned knee implants improves the overall functionality of the knee and may extend the life of the knee implants, which positively impacts long-term results for patients.
Before performing a robotic-assisted knee replacement, state-of-the-art imaging technology is used to provide a comprehensive 3D mapping of a patient’s knee. “This allows the orthopedic surgeon to customize the position of the implants and to balance the soft tissue around the knee according to the unique anatomy of each patient versus using 'one size fits all' standard surgical templates,” said Dr Jain.
There is no one-size-fits-all standard surgical template for all patients
Most patients benefit from less postoperative pain, less blood loss, and faster functional recovery with robotic-assisted surgery. The results also depend on the patient's age, overall health, bone quality, and willingness to comply with physiotherapy and rehabilitation protocols.
In India, bone and joint health is often overlooked until pain becomes severe. Knee pain, back pain, stiffness, or weak bones are frequently accepted as an inevitable part of growing older, when in reality, these are treatable medical conditions. “Delaying medical consultation can worsen underlying damage and gradually limit mobility. Early evaluation by an orthopedic specialist helps diagnose issues at a manageable stage and prevents long-term disability,” opined Dr Rahul Modi, Orthopedic Surgeon, Kapadia Hospital.
Also read:Showing Up Sick in the Office? Why Presenteeism Is Hurting Workplace Productivity
Source: India Latest News, Breaking News Today, Top News Headlines | Times Now
