If you’ve tried every remedy under the sun for your knee pain and nothing seems to work, it might be time to consider surgery. which one is better robotic vs traditional knee surgery.
With advancements in medical technology, the way these surgeries are performed has evolved significantly. But which type should you choose—traditional or robotic? It’s a tough decision, and we understand how overwhelming it can be. This is the decision only an orthopedic specialist can make, after reviewing the severity of surgery, but having a prior awareness of the available can always help a patient set realistic expectations about the procedure.
“While the type of surgeries may differ based on the specific condition, all knee replacement surgeries can be broadly classified into traditional and robotic knee replacement surgeries,” says orthopedic specialist and knee replacement expert Dr. Chirag Patel. With his insights, we’ll break down traditional vs. robotic knee replacement surgery, including their benefits and disadvantages, and answer the most commonly asked questions about knee replacement surgery. This will help you make an informed decision. So, let’s dive in and explore which option might be the best fit for you.
What is Traditional Knee Replacement Surgery?
Traditional knee replacement surgery has been a standard procedure for decades to treat severe knee arthritis. During the surgery, an orthopedic surgeon makes an incision in the knee to access the joint; the damaged parts of the knee joint are replaced with artificial components made of metal and plastic attached to the remaining bone. The muscles and ligaments around the knee are also adjusted to accommodate the new components. This helps to reduce pain and improve the overall function of the knee.
Disadvantages of Traditional Knee Replacement Surgery:
Traditional knee replacement surgery can bring much relief but also has some disadvantages. Here are the main ones to consider:
- Human error can affect the alignment and positioning of the implants.
- Recovery time is usually long, often taking several months.
- Extensive physical therapy is required after surgery.
- There’s a risk of complications like infection and blood clots.
- The knee replacement procedure involves large incisions about 10-12 inches long, made using conventional surgical tools, which leads to more tissue disruption and longer recovery.
What is Robotic Knee Surgery?
Robotic knee surgery uses a small robotic arm to help the surgeon do the operation accurately. The surgeon controls the robot, giving real-time data and 3D images to place the knee implants precisely. This technology allows for more minor cuts, less pain, faster recovery, and better-fitting, longer-lasting implants than traditional surgery.
Advantages of Robotic Knee Replacement Surgery:
Robotic knee surgery is increasingly favored by doctors for its precision and feedback capabilities. The following are the advantages of Robotic knee replacement surgery;
- Precise implant positioning for better fit and alignment.
- Enhanced surgical accuracy with real-time feedback during the procedure.
- Minimally invasive approach, leading to reduced postoperative pain.
- Shortened hospital stays and quicker recovery times.
- Decreased trauma to surrounding tissues, promoting better overall recovery outcomes.
Who is a Candidate for Robotic Knee Replacement?
Generally, individuals who are experiencing knee pain that limits their daily activities, have not found relief with other treatments, and have advanced knee arthritis may be considered for robotic knee replacement surgery. It’s essential to consult with your orthopedic surgeon to determine if robotic knee replacement is the right choice for you.
What is the Success Rate of Robotic Knee Replacement?
One of the critical factors patients consider when choosing a surgical procedure is its success rate. Studies indicate that robotic knee replacement boasts a success rate of over 90%, similar to traditional knee replacement surgery. This high success rate is mainly due to the precise capabilities of robotic technology, which enables more accurate placement of implants and improved knee joint alignment. This accuracy helps minimize complications such as misalignment, leading to better long-term outcomes and patient satisfaction.
Robotic knee replacement surgery is advancing with ongoing research and technology, improving success rates and patient outcomes. This makes it increasingly preferred by both patients and healthcare providers for knee replacements.
Is Robotic Knee Replacement Surgery Better than Traditional?
The new technology offers exciting advantages over traditional methods when it comes to robotic knee replacement surgery. Robotic knee replacement surgery provides increased precision, allowing customization to each patient’s unique anatomy. This can lead to quicker recovery times and improved long-term outcomes.
Additionally, robotic surgery reduces the risk of human error and minimizes tissue damage, promoting a smoother healing process. However, the best choice depends on the patient’s individual needs, the expertise of the orthopedic surgeon, and the specific medical condition of the knee.
Dr. Chirag Patel – Robotic knee Replacement Surgeon in Mumbai
Struggling with knee arthritis and wondering if traditional or robotic surgery is your best option? Dr. Chirag Patel, renowned as best knee replacement surgeon and orthopedic specialist in Mumbai, offers personalized guidance to help you regain mobility and comfort. Take the first step towards a pain-free life by contacting us today here.