Robotic-Assisted Joint Replacement Surgery: What You Need To Know

If you’re considering having joint replacement surgery, you might have heard about robotic-assisted surgery. This advanced technology helps surgeons perform joint replacements like knee or hip surgeries. It offers greater precision and improves outcomes for many patients.

“Robotics help ensure the implant fits your unique anatomy, which improves alignment and stability,” said Joel Virkler, DO, an independent orthopedic surgeon who chooses to practice at Franciscan Health. Dr. Virkler explains what you need to know about robotic surgery and how it could benefit you.

What Is Robotic-Assisted Joint Replacement Surgery?

Robotic-assisted surgery uses advanced tools to help your surgeon plan and perform joint replacement procedures with incredible accuracy. Robotic surgery is often used for partial knee and total knee replacements, hip replacements, and increasingly utilized for younger patients with better long term outcomes.

“The system doesn’t replace your surgeon but works as an assistive technology to help make precise adjustments to, allowing optimal component alignment with your anatomy,” said Dr. Virkler.

For example:

• In knee replacements, robotics ensure the right balance between bone alignment and ligament tension, which improves joint movement.
• For hip replacements, robotics help reduce the risk of future hip dislocation by carefully positioning the hip socket and implant.

How Does Robotic Surgery Work?

Most orthopedic implant companies have developed robotic systems to improve the precision of joint replacement surgery. 

“I use the Stryker Mako robotic system, a tool widely regarded as the gold standard for robotic joint replacement,” said Dr. Virkler. 

This system combines a preoperative CT scan, real-time data, and intra-operative bone and cartilage mapping. 

“Using the Mako system, we create a detailed plan and test it virtually before surgery begins,” said Dr. Virkler. “This process ensures accuracy, which leads to better joint stability and improved outcomes.”

Traditional surgery relies on step-by-step surgical cuts. Robotics, however, streamline the process and reduce the risk of errors.

“It’s about delivering a precise, personalized approach to joint replacement,” he added.

What Are The Benefits of Robotic-Assisted Surgery?

Robotic-assisted joint replacement offers several advantages, including:

• Greater Accuracy: With robotic-assisted surgery, the surgery team can place implants more accurately, which leads to improved joint alignment and stability.
• Faster Recovery: Many patients experience less pain and a quicker return to daily activities.
• Lower Risks: For hips, robotics help reduce the risk of dislocation. They improve long-term function and implant longevity in knees.

“Robotics help patients heal faster and achieve more natural movement by improving implant precision and joint balance,” said Dr. Virkler.

According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, greater precision may lower the risk of needing revision surgery later.

Tackling Challenges Like Hip Dislocation

Hip dislocation is a well-known complication of hip replacement surgery. While minimally invasive approaches, such as the anterior approach, have reduced this risk, robotic systems add another layer of precision. 

“Robotic systems help us precisely position implants, reducing the risk of hip dislocation by addressing individual factors like anatomy and spinal stiffness,” said Dr. Virkler.

The Difference Between Robotic and Minimally Invasive Surgery

Robotic-assisted surgery is not the same as minimally invasive surgery. 

For example, the da Vinci® robotic system has transformed general, urological and gynecological surgeries by making procedures both more precise and less invasive, reducing hospital stays.

In a way, the role of robotic systems in abdominal surgery (Da Vinci) is similar to how orthopedic arthroscopy has improved precision and outcomes in knee, hip and shoulder sports-related surgeries.

But robotic systems in orthopedic joint replacement serve a different purpose. “These systems focus on achieving precise alignment and joint balance, which can lead to less pain, better range of motion and longer-lasting implants,” Dr. Virkler said.

Another common technology utilized in joint replacement surgery is navigation Dr. Virkler offered this explanation: “Navigation systems use data from intra-operative bone and cartilage mapping to improve implant alignment during joint replacement surgeries. While they do enhance precision and can have improved outcomes more similar to robotics than manual instrumentation, they lack the level of data and execution accuracy offered by robotic systems.”

For example, the Mako robotic system locks the bone saw into a “haptic field.” Once there is a set surgical plan, it ensures the surgeons make cuts with exact precision.

Some FDA-approved “robotic” systems function more like navigation systems. They use traditional manual cutting guides and omit CT scans. Although navigation can improve alignment, it is not a true robotic system.

“When you consider these options, the most important factor is trusting your surgeon,” said Dr. Virkler. “Ask questions about the technology they use to keep yourself informed. It’s helpful to understand how your surgeon will use these tools in your surgery and how they can benefit your specific needs.” However, trusting your surgeon to utilize the appropriate tools and achieve the best outcomes should be the priority. I have found Mako robotics to be one of those tools to achieve the best surgical results and increase patient satisfaction.

What Are the Risks of Robotic Surgery?

Like any surgery, robotic-assisted joint replacement has risks, but they’re typically low. Potential risks may include:

• Slightly longer surgery times in some cases, which may increase infection risk
• Rare complications with tracker pins used during the procedure

“For most patients, the benefits of robotic systems far outweigh these risks,” said Dr. Virkler.

Who Can Benefit From Robotic Surgery?

Robotic-assisted surgery is a good option for most patients undergoing joint replacements. It can be especially beneficial if you have:

• Hip instability or a higher risk of dislocation
• Knee deformities like bow legs or knock knees
• Severe arthritis.

“In my opinion, any patient needing a partial knee replacement is an ideal candidate for robotic systems,” said Dr. Virkler.

What Should You Ask Your Surgeon?

If you’re considering robotic surgery, talk to your surgeon about their experience with the technology and whether it’s the right choice for you. Some things to ask include:

• How many robotic-assisted procedures have you performed?
• What results can I expect with this surgery?
• Are there risks specific to robotic systems?

Pre-surgery imaging, like CT scans used by robotic systems, involves minimal radiation exposure. This means it’s safe for most patients.

Why Choose Robotic-Assisted Surgery?

Robotic-assisted surgery is a major step forward in joint replacement care. With improved accuracy, faster recovery and better outcomes, Dr. Virkler said it’s an excellent choice for many patients.

“At Franciscan Health, we’re proud to offer this advanced technology to help our patients move with greater comfort and confidence,” said Dr. Virkler. “It’s about combining expertise with technology to give patients the best possible care.”