Robotic and Computer navigated Joint reconstruction

Robotic and computer-navigated joint replacement is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that uses advanced technology for joint replacement . Joint replacement surgery is a surgical procedure that focuses on restoring the mobility of diseased joints. This procedure might involve replacing and repairing bones, joints, cartilage, and ligaments. It combines the precision of robotics with computer-assisted navigation to give accurate treatments. The integration of these advanced technologies enables a highly personalised surgical approach, which decreases the post-surgical complications compared to the traditional approach.

What is robotic and computer-navigated joint replacement ?

Robotic and computer-navigated joint replacement is a surgical technique utilising advanced technology to perform joint replacement surgeries. It is well-known for its accuracy and precision to improve surgical outcomes, particularly in complex surgeries. It is often known as robotic-assisted joint replacement . It is commonly used for partial and total knee replacements and hip replacements. In this procedure, the surgeon replaces damaged bones and cartilage with artificial entities, usually made up of metal alloys, polymers, and high-grade plastics.

There are several different varieties of robotic assistance that are re-utilised in joint reconstruction surgery. When you consult an orthopaedic surgeon, they initially conduct diagnostic tests to find out the disease. It is challenging to place the individual components of robotic joints (artificial joints) to replace the damaged ones in the best possible alignment so that they coordinate together and work smoothly. The robotic systems used in this procedure are Navio, Mako, Omni, and Mazor robotic systems. A robotic system comprises the following accessories:

Robotic arm: It is a mechanical and programmable arm that functions as humans. It is often called a robotic hand. It is attached to the surgical table and is equipped with various surgical and medical instruments, like drills, saws, and scissors.

Computer software: It is software-linked and connected to the robotic arm, and it informs the surgeon about the results, current conditions, feedback, and guidance.

Intraoperative imaging: It is an imaging tool used to get the internal images of the bones and joints where the surgery is taking place. It helps in precise navigation and alignment of the joints in the right positions.

Types of robotic and computer-navigated joint reconstruction

Navio surgical system: It is a type of robotic joint reconstruction procedure that is conducted after giving anaesthesia to the patients. Then, the surgeons make an incision in the required area to access the damaged joints. Then, with the help of the NAVIO robotic system, they collect the anatomical data to generate a 3D model of the bones. Thereafter, the incision site is cleaned and closed.

Mako robotic joint reconstruction: In this technique, the same surgical procedure is carried out with the help of the Mako robotic system. It gives greater precision and a natural feeling to joints. It involves less trauma and fast recovery.

The procedure of robotic joint replacement with the help of robotics

During the surgery, the surgeon makes a small incision in the required place to access the affected area. With the help of the robotic system, the ligament conditions are scanned, further surgical procedures are planned, and bone preparation is carried out with the help of the robotic arm. Then, the damaged bones or joints are removed, and the artificial joints are replaced in the required area with the help of robotic arms, and proper alignment is performed. With the help of the computer software, the alignment of the replaced bones is checked, and the incisions are closed by stitching. Then, using the intraoperative imaging tool, the internal images of the replaced joints are seen to ensure their proper function. The outcomes and success rate of this procedure are promising (at around 99%).

Some of the common procedures performed using robotic joint replacement include:

• Knee replacement surgery
• Hip replacement surgery
• Shoulder replacement surgery
• Ankle replacement surgery

Which diseases are treated using robotic and computer-navigated joint reconstruction?

Rheumatoid arthritis: It is a chronic autoimmune condition caused in the joints. It is an inflammation of the joints. It involves bone degradation, resulting in irritation. It usually occurs in fingers, hands, wrists, knees, ankles, feet, and toes. It is seen in people 30 to 50 years of age. When it is seen in children of 16 to 40 years of age, it is referred to as juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (JRA), and when it develops in people of 60 years of age, it is referred to as later-onset rheumatoid arthritis (LORA). The symptoms include pain, swelling in more joints, stiffness of joints, fatigue, and fever. In advanced conditions, joint reconstruction would be the only option to improve joint mobility and decrease the pain.

Hip dysplasia: This disorder occurs in babies and young children, wherein the bones in the hip joint do not coordinate together. The hip joint is a connection point between the femur and the pelvis. In this condition, the femur does not fit into the pelvis and does not line up properly with the curved socket in the pelvis acetabulum. This results in cartilage damage, causing pain and stiffness. The symptoms include hip pain, unstable hip, and wrinkled skin around the hip. Robotic surgeries provide a precise solution for cases of chronic and severe dysplasia by enabling better placement and alignment of hip implants in your body.

Osteonecrosis: It is also referred to as avascular necrosis, which is caused by reduced blood flow to the bone tissues because of blockages. Blood carries nutrients and oxygen to the bones to regenerate. Without blood flow, blood regeneration does not take place. As a result, the old bones begin to crumble and collapse. It can be seen in ankles, jaw bones, knee bones, and shoulder bones. It is commonly caused by bone fractures. Based on causes, osteoporosis is classified into two types:

Traumatic avascular necrosis: It is caused by bone fractures and dislocation.

Non-traumatic avascular necrosis: It is caused by other medical conditions that reduce blood flow to the bones.

In severe cases, one might require joint reconstruction to gain better mobility. Hence, robotic surgeries offer minimal post-surgical risk and pain perception. Robotic joint reconstruction can aid the necrotic bone with artificial implants, restoring a good range of motion.

• Gout: It is a condition of inflammatory arthritis that causes pain and swelling in the joints. It is caused due to an accumulation of uric acid in the body. It mainly affects the knees, ankles, feet, hands, and elbows. The symptoms of gout recur in episodes called gout attacks. The symptoms include intense pain, discolouration, stiffness, and swelling of bones. Repeated gout attacks can disrupt the bone and might lead to severe damage to the joints. In severe cases, joint replacements and other surgical interventions are advised. For such cases, minimally invasive robotic surgeries provide swift and better recovery compared to conventional surgical approaches.
• Degenerative joint disease: Osteoarthritis is the most common degenerative joint disease. It is caused when the cartilage between the joints is worn out. It commonly affects the joints in the hands, knees, hips, neck, and lower back. There are two types of osteoarthritis:
• Primary osteoarthritis: It is caused due to normal wear and tear of the bones in the joints.
• Secondary osteoarthritis: It is caused by damage to the joints due to injuries and traumas. The symptoms include pain in joints while moving, stiffness, and swelling.

Severe cases of degenerative joint disease require surgical intervention, such as total knee replacement. Through advanced microsurgical incisions via robotic surgeries, one can offer you better recovery and range of movements.

Benefits of robotic and computer-navigated joint reconstruction

Robotic and computer-navigated joint reconstruction surgeries offer a wide range of advantages. It ranges from earlier recovery to cost-effectiveness post-surgeries. A few benefits include:

• The robotic system ensures that the implants are placed in proper alignment, resulting in unmatched precision and accuracy.
• As it is a minimally invasive surgery, it often results in less trauma, blood loss, and scarring, which helps reduce risks and complications.
• As there will be minimal blood loss and post-surgical complications, it offers less recovery time and ensures a shorter hospital stay.
• The minimally invasive technique used in the surgery reduces pain and discomfort after the surgery.
• It offers improved patient outcomes and satisfaction. This also ensures that the procedure is safer and affirms the longevity of the surgery’s outcomes.

What to expect when you meet a doctor for robotic and computer-navigated joint reconstruction?

• Surgeons initially use imaging technologies, like CT or MRI scans, which help create a 3D model of the damaged joint.
• You are provided with information regarding the surgery and procedures involved.
• You have explained the benefits of the surgery and how the computer-navigated system improves accuracy and reduces complications.
• The expected outcomes and recovery times of this procedure are informed.
• The cost required for the procedure is explained.
• Your consent is requested before the surgery is conducted.
• The further appointments, when the surgery is going to take place, and what things you have to prepare for before and after the surgery are informed.

How team Fortis helps you after a robotic and computer-navigated joint replacement ?

Fortis is one of the best orthopaedic hospitals. It is one of the finest hospitals for robotic and computer-navigated orthopaedic surgeries. We mainly aim to provide the best care to the patients undergoing these surgeries. We offer you a range of services that would make your surgery successful at our hospital. Some include the following:

• We provide personalised care and guidance to ensure smooth and fast recovery.
• We monitor your progress and daily developments post-surgery.
• We coordinate with physical therapists to conduct rehabilitation programs that help you regain strength and mobility.
• We help in daily and primary activities, like dressing, bathing, providing food, and checking on you.
• We provide pain management plans to reduce discomfort and promote fast recovery.
• We also work closely with orthopaedics and prosthetists to assist you in the treatment plans for better recovery.
• We guide you in nutritional diet plans and exercises to promote a healthy lifestyle for fast recovery.
• We schedule regular follow-up appointments to monitor your health progress and issues related to the previous treatments.
• We provide every information regarding your condition, treatment, and recovery process post-operative care to empower you with appropriate knowledge and confidence.

Conclusion

In a nutshell, robotic joint replacement surgery is an advanced technique used in modern days, which provides greater precision, a high degree of accuracy, better visualisation, quick recovery, and a long-term success rate. By integrating state-of-the-art robotic systems with computer-assisted navigation, this technique offers a cutting-edge novel surgical approach, ensuring minimal post-surgical complications. At Fortis, we have advanced robotic equipment that can foster and enhance surgical outcomes. However, the versatility of the newer technology makes it an indispensable tool in treating a wide range of orthopaedic conditions.