Robotic & Conventional Total/Partial Knee Replacement Surgery - Which Is Better?

A Knee Replacement Surgery, also called Arthroplasty, is the one in which the portion of the knee affected by arthritis is removed and covered to form new joint surfaces from metal and plastic parts. The procedure restores mobility, functionality, and alleviates pain. Therefore, it is a life-altering procedure for patients to help them resume an active lifestyle.

The Partial (Unicompartmental) Knee Replacement Surgery is the one in which only one compartment of the knee is replaced. It performed when arthritis is not very severe. The decision also depends upon the severity of deformity and stiffness. The patients experience less pain and recover faster in this case, resulting in a more natural feeling post-surgery. In the case of Total Knee Replacement Surgery, all the three
compartments of the knee are replaced. It is performed in severe cases of arthritis. The decision to opt for a specific type of surgery depends on the particular case. Each case is unique and very contextual. The doctor thus decides and recommends accordingly.

Conventional Knee Replacement Surgery:

In Conventional Knee Replacement Surgery, correct position and alignment of the implant (plastic or metal) are visually identified by the surgeon based on the joint X-Ray. The prosthesis is cemented in place manually after insertion of the implant. Although, the conventional approach to this type of surgery is common and successful, there are incidences of improper installation of the replacement parts, also referred to as postoperative misalignment. This is due to manual instrumentation. Thus, there is less precision in positioning the implant.

Robotic Knee Replacement Surgery:

Robotic Knee Replacement Surgery employs a robotic arm for the surgery controlled by the surgeon. Computed Tomography (CT) scans are used instead of the X-Rays for constructing a three-dimensional image of the joint for guidance to facilitate decision-making during the surgery. It helps in planning the course of the surgery. It facilitates the precise positioning of the implant for ensuring correct alignment of the leg and balancing of the soft tissue. The robotic arm shapes precisely the surrounding bone before the implant is placed. Real-time video helps the surgeon navigate properly the joint internally. Also, since the 'envelope' in which to work is clearly pre-defined, there is zero chance of the instruments to slip away and harm the surrounding tissue.

Benefits of Robotic Knee Replacement Surgery:

1. This type of approach ensures more precision in the entire procedure, even when the same medical professional employs either of the two approaches.
2. It leads to extremely accurate positioning of the implant, resulting in a more natural feel post-surgery.
3. This type has a lesser risk of harm to surrounding tissues leading to improved safety.
4. This approach involves small incisions that recover quickly and cause less pain.
5. There is a very small amount of blood loss and an extremely low risk of blood clot.
6. Post-surgery, there are fewer chances of abnormal wear, tear, and loosening. Thus, there is good potential for a better function in the long term, all due to extreme precision.
7. Robotic Knee Replacement Surgery is considered to be superior to the Conventional Knee Replacement Surgery due to improved outcomes and less hassle.

Take Away:

There are many benefits of Robotic Knee Replacement. However, one should consult a doctor before opting for this surgery.