Orthopedic surgery is a procedure used to treat conditions affecting the musculoskeletal system. It can be used to diagnose, treat and repair conditions that affect the joints, muscles and bones. Some of the most common orthopedic surgical procedures include knee replacement surgery, hip replacement surgery and ACL surgery. Joint replacement procedures in particular can be quite complex. Orthopedic surgeons are now applying orthopedic robotic surgery to provide better results. Below, we take a closer look at robot-assisted surgery.

What Is Robot-Assisted Orthopedic Surgery?

Joint replacement surgeries involve various critical steps. These include the removal of damaged cartilage and bone, preparation of the remaining bone and the placement of the new ceramic or metallic prosthetic. These steps require a great level of accuracy. Many orthopedic surgeons make use of an orthopedic robot to enhance their surgical skills and ensure greater precision and thus better results for their patients.

It is important to understand that the surgery is robot-assisted. This means that the surgeon controls the robotic system through a console. The robotic system is equipped with surgical instruments. The robotic arms therefore simply translate the movements of the surgeon into highly precise actions within the patient’s body. The robot is capable of making sub-millimeter adjustments and thus reducing the margin of error. Greater precision leads to better outcomes, reduced complications and faster recovery times. It is therefore beneficial to seek a n orthopedic surgeon Bellevue trusts for great results with robot-assisted procedures.

Common procedures where robot-assisted surgery is applied include total knee replacements, total hip replacements, partial knee replacements, spine surgeries and procedures to correct deformities like scoliosis. It is particularly valuable in cases where a high degree of accuracy and precision is required, such as aligning prosthetic joints or navigating complex spinal anatomy.

Benefits of Robot-Assisted Orthopedic Surgery

There are several reasons why orthopedic surgeons are opting to integrate robot-assisted surgery to their practice. These include:

• Better surgical planning

The technology available allows orthopedic surgeons to generate detailed, patient-specific 3D models of the joint using CT scans or other imaging modalities. These models are used by the surgeons to plan the surgery to a higher level of accuracy. They are better able to tailor the procedure to the patient’s unique anatomy. The surgeon can create a customized surgical plan that outlines the optimal implant size, alignment and position for the joint replacement.

• Greater precision and accuracy

One of the biggest benefits of robot-assisted surgery is improved accuracy. The robotic arm allows for very fine adjustments. This helps to ensure that the implant is positioned correctly and aligned with the patient’s anatomy. The robotic arm provides the surgeon with real-time feedback. This allows the surgeon to follow the surgical plan more precisely including during bone preparation and implant replacement. This can lead to improved joint function and longevity.

• Allow for minimally invasive techniques

The technology allows for the application of minimally invasive techniques in orthopedic surgery. This means smaller incisions and less tissue damage. Patients suffer reduced pain and are often able to recover faster.

• Improved patient outcomes

Studies suggest performing using the assistance of robotic technology may lead to reduced pain, shorter hospital stays and faster rehabilitation compared to traditional joint replacement methods. Precise alignment and positioning of joint implants helps to reduce wear and tear on the implant thus potentially extending its lifespan.

Common Robotic Technology Used for Orthopedic Surgery

There are various technologies currently available. In this blog, we highlight two state-of-the-art technologies Dr. Boone, an orthopedic surgeon Bellevue residents trust for great results, applies to ensure better results for his patients.

• Stryker Mako Robotic-Arm Assisted Technology

The Mako surgical robot is a free-standing robotic arm that combines robotics, computer navigation and 3D imaging to assist orthopedic surgeons in the performance of highly precise and personalized joint replacement surgeries. The surgeon remains in full control of the robotic arm throughout the surgery and makes decisions and adjustments as needed.

The robotic arm is often used in joint replacement surgeries. Surgeons use it to create a 3D model of the hip or knee joint. This is used to plan and guide the surgery. The robotic arm helps to improve precise removal of damaged tissues and the implantation of the prosthetic joint. The use of this system reduces operative room time. It also minimizes damage to healthy surrounding tissue and thus allows for faster and improved recovery.

• Smith & Nephew Navio Surgical System

This is a handheld device that offers many of the benefits that the Mako technology offers. However, it has the additional benefit of providing orthopedic surgeons with real-time imaging for better planning and guidance in surgery. It is primarily used in knee replacement surgeries including total knee replacement and partial knee replacement. This technology enables orthopedic surgeons to place ligament sparing knee replacements based on the specific anatomy of the patient. It allows patients with an intact ACL (Anterior cruciate ligament) to retain their ligament.

Robot-assisted surgery has revolutionized orthopedic surgery. It allows for greater precision and better outcomes for patients. If you’re interested in learning more about these procedures, contact us and schedule a session with Dr. Boone, the best orthopedic surgeon Bellevue residents trust for the best results.