Robotic vs. Traditional Knee Replacement Surgery

Knee replacement surgery using robotics sounds like a futuristic goal, but that future is now. Physicians have begun using robotics during surgery, relying on a machine’s precise movements to assist them with procedures that demand great accuracy, such as knee replacement.

Some patients feel hesitant when they learn about new robotic knee replacement surgery options. They wonder if they’re safe and if there are risks involved with this surgery. The truth is, patients receive many benefits when they choose robotic surgery.

Learn More About Robotic Knee Surgery

What Is Robotic Knee Surgery?

Robotic surgery does not mean that an actual robot performs the entire surgery. Instead, doctors use a robotic surgical arm to execute parts of the procedure, assisting in areas that demand the steadiest hand and navigating small places. Robotics becomes another tool in the doctor’s kit.

Using CT scans, the robotic arm can work from 3D images of the surgical area and perform a range of tasks, such as:

Prepare the bone.
Introduce the implant.
Balance the implant.
Check for the right fit.

Advantages of Robotic Knee Surgery

Robotic knee surgery has already established itself as a powerful tool for doctors. The medical community has seen advantages in several areas:

Lower Long-Term Costs

Patients who get robotic knee replacement surgery tend to have fewer complications, which means fewer return visits to the hospital. You will also have a quicker recovery time, meaning you can get back to your job and earning money faster. Also, minimally invasive surgery results in fewer infections and other risks that can send a patient back to the hospital.

Better Patient Outcomes

Studies have shown that patients receiving robotic knee surgery experience fewer readmissions to the hospital. They also require less rehabilitation than patients who undergo traditional knee replacement surgery. Robotic arms can rid surgical areas of diseased bone tissue more effectively, too, improving the recovery rate of patients.

Higher Patient Satisfaction

Patients can return to their daily activities faster, which translates to higher patient satisfaction with their health care services. Robotic knee surgery requires less downtime for the patient, which is something they will appreciate.

Patients also like the precision of using the arm. There are fewer chances for mistakes with this careful approach. The implant can be aligned and adjusted more carefully, which increases the patient’s comfort. Finding the most effective option is always the aim of any surgery. People value the combination of robotic precision with the actual physician’s bedside manner and other human qualities.

Is Robotic Knee Replacement Surgery Better?

Yes — robotic surgery has been shown to deliver better results vs. traditional knee replacement. Studies have shown surgeries performed with robotics offer more accurate results. The less trauma on the bone and tissue, the better the results, and robotic assistance allows for precision that reduces traumatic areas.

Are you a candidate for knee replacement surgery? Schedule an appointment at the OrthoBethesda office today to discuss your options with our staff. We’ll help you figure out the best treatment for your knee and get you back to enjoying life again.

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