Robotic Knee Replacement vs Traditional Knee Replacement

Total knee replacement is a common but life-changing orthopaedic surgery that involves the replacement of the knee joint with the help of implants to improve the quality of life of patients suffering from end-stage osteoarthritis or other physical damage. The age group undergoing this procedure has reduced in recent years with younger patients receiving total knee replacement procedures quite often. This procedure is also known as total knee arthroplasty (TKA) or total knee replacement (TKR).

What is Traditional Total Knee Replacement Surgery?

The traditional method of knee replacement, also known as the conventional method has been the preferred choice of treatment for many surgeons for the last several decades. This method utilises x-ray images and solely relies upon the visual evaluation of the surgeon and the utilisation of direct manual surgery. The traditional total knee replacement surgery involves making an incision of around 10 to 12 inches long using standard surgical tools and equipment.

While this procedure has benefited several patients over the last several years, it is invasive and painful and requires a longer time to recover from.

In conventional knee replacement surgery, the method is reliant on vision and human judgement and the technique is based on bone section and soft tissue balancing. 

Disadvantages of Traditional Knee Replacement Surgery

There are some disadvantages of the conventional method of knee replacement and these include:

1. The procedure takes a longer period to perform and can be extensive.
2. There is a lot of involvement of skin and soft tissue that has to be stretched and lacerated during the procedure.
3. There is increased wear and tear of the knee components that have to be replaced and can be misaligned or poorly fit after replacement.
4. The operating surgeon has an extremely limited view of the joint and this is a technically demanding procedure that requires a steep surgical learning curve.

What is Robotic Knee Replacement Surgery?

In robotic knee replacement surgery, a virtual model of the patient’s knee is utilised to create a pre-operative plan. With the help of a computer, the surgeon guides a programmed robotic arm while replacing a damaged knee part.

Read More: 6 Things to Know about Robotic Knee Replacement.

The treatment with the help of the programmed robotic arm replaces the diseased part of the knee while conserving the patient's healthy bone and the surrounding tissues. An implant is then secured inside the joint thus enabling the need to regain its movements and range of motion.

Advantages of Robotic Knee Replacement Surgery 

There are multiple benefits of this new procedure that result in a much better experience and recovery phase for the patient.

1. This surgery increases the possibility for improved long-term function of the knee joint. 
2. It has improved safety and also decreased the risk of injury to the surrounding tissues and bone components. 
3. The procedure requires smaller incisions which results in faster recovery, shorter hospitalisation and lesser levels of discomfort for the patient. 
4. There is a higher level of accuracy in the implant positioning which results in a natural feeling for the patient in the joint after the procedure. 
5. This surgery requires a customized surgical plan to position the implants with utmost accuracy. 
6. The risk of complications after the placement of this prosthesis is less. 
7. This newer system maps the patient’s patterns of natural joint movement and minimises the excess stress on the ligaments and soft tissues. This ensures that the joint will move naturally after the placement of the implant. 
8. The rehabilitation time after this procedure is usually shorter and there is a lesser chance of implant failure and an even lesser necessity for a revision procedure.

Who is a Suitable Candidate for Robotic Knee Replacement Surgery?

The orthopaedic surgeons at Fortis Hiranandani Hospital, Vashi explain that robotic joint replacement surgery can help improve accuracy and enhance the outcome for patients. Your orthopaedic surgeon will be able to decide whether you are a good candidate for robotic knee surgery. This decision is usually based on the patient’s age, lifestyle, diet and the severity of the joint damage. 

Patients suffering from osteoarthritis are also good candidates for robotic knee surgery depending on whether their condition hasn’t progressed extensively. In some patients, the swelling and stiffness accompanied by pain around the knee region become unbearable and restrict regular movement and daily activities. Usually, if prescription medication and physical therapy no longer alleviate the pain and swelling, the patient might be ready for surgery.

Read More: Life After Robotic Knee Replacement

Orthopedic Services at Fortis Hiranandani Hospital Vashi, Navi Mumbai

Some of the most well-known and experienced orthopedic surgeons in the city have been associated with Fortis Hiranandani Hospital, Vashi for the last several years. The orthopaedic department is equipped with the latest technology and well-trained medical staff. The orthopaedic specialists and surgeons at Fortis Vashi are adept at diagnosing and treating various types of orthopedic disorders spanning all age groups.

Robotic Knee Replacement Surgery at Fortis Hospital Vashi, Navi Mumbai

The orthopedic surgeons at Fortis Hiranandani, Vashi explain that when non-surgical treatment modalities such as medication and walking support are no longer helpful to the patient, total knee replacement surgery can be considered to reduce discomfort and improve the quality of life. They go on to explain that this procedure is safe and effective and, while it can correct leg deformities, it can also help you resume normal activities.