Joints play a vital role in our body, enabling nearly every movement we make. From the time we rise in the morning until we go to bed at night, our joints are integral to performing even basic tasks. Among these, the knee joint stands out as one of the most significant and complex. It supports daily activities like walking, running, jumping, and sitting.
However, knee joint issues can develop, interrupting our daily routines and making it difficult to perform everyday tasks. These issues can result from various factors, including knee osteoarthritis, knee effusion, meniscus tears, ligament tears, and more. Knee joint problems are common among older adults due to the gradual wear and tear that comes with aging. Additionally, athletes who participate in high-impact activities like running or sports that involve jumping or quick pivoting movements are at an increased risk of experiencing knee pain and complications. Non-surgical treatments are often suggested as the first line of treatment to treat knee joint problems. These treatments can include physical therapy, pain relief medications, or injections.
Knee replacement surgery, or knee arthroplasty, involves surgically removing the damaged or diseased portion of the knee joint and replacing it with an artificial joint, thus relieving chronic knee pain and improving mobility. Knee replacement surgery is important if the pain persists for long. With advancements in medical technology, patients now have the option to choose between robotic knee replacement and conventional knee replacement surgeries.
In this blog, we will delve into the differences between conventional knee replacement surgery and robotic knee replacement surgery to help you make an informed decision.
Conventional Knee Replacement Surgery
Conventional knee replacement surgery, also known as traditional knee replacement, is a well-established orthopaedic procedure used to address various knee conditions that result in pain and mobility issues. During this surgery, the damaged part of the knee joint is replaced with an artificial joint, or prosthesis, composed of metal and plastic components. The primary aim is alleviating pain and restoring the knee's mobility and functionality.In conventional knee replacement surgery, a long incision is made down the centre of the knee joint to access and visualize the affected area. The surgeon removes the damaged bone and cartilage from the femur, tibia, and patella, preparing the surfaces to accommodate the artificial joint components. Metal components are attached to the ends of the bones, and a plastic spacer is inserted between them to ensure smooth movement. The procedure usually takes about an hour, and patients receive spinal anaesthesia.
Following the surgery, patients typically need a few days of hospitalization and 3-6 weeks of rehabilitation to regain strength and mobility in the knee joint. Rehabilitation involves physical therapy exercises and movements designed to enhance flexibility and muscle strength in the affected area. Initially, patients may also need to use assistive devices such as crutches or walkers during their recovery period.
Robotic Knee Replacement Surgery
Robotic knee replacement, also referred to as robot-assisted knee replacement, is an advanced and modern surgical technique that utilizes advanced robotic systems to assist surgeons in performing knee replacement procedures. In robotic knee replacement surgery, a surgeon utilizes a robotic arm to aid in the preparation of bone surfaces and the placement of artificial joint components. During the procedure, the surgeon employs advanced computer software to create a 3D virtual model of the patient's knee joint. This model allows the surgeon to meticulously plan and tailor the surgery based on the patient's unique anatomy and needs.The robotic arm is programmed to execute the surgeon's pre-planned movements, making precise cuts on the bone surface to prepare it for the implant. Throughout the procedure, the surgeon maintains control over the robotic arm's movements and can make adjustments as necessary.
After the bone surfaces are adequately prepared, the surgeon positions the artificial joint components, which are custom-designed to match the patient's anatomy. The robotic arm assists in accurately and precisely placing these components, ensuring optimal alignment and stability of the new joint.
Comparative Analysis of Conventional and Robotic Knee Replacement Surgeries
Surgical Procedure: In traditional knee replacement surgery, the surgeon makes a long incision down the middle of the knee to access the damaged joint, using conventional surgical tools through manual techniques. On the other hand, robotic knee replacement surgery utilises a minimally invasive approach with smaller incisions, leading to less tissue damage and reduced blood loss. The surgeon uses a robotic arm to assist in preparing the bone surfaces and positioning the artificial joint components. Before the surgery, a detailed 3D imaging model of the patient's knee is created using CT scans.Precision and Accuracy: Conventional knee replacement surgery depends on the surgeon's expertise and experience to make precise cuts and measurements during the procedure. In contrast, robotic knee replacement surgery utilises advanced computer software and a robotic arm to assist the surgeon, catering to enhanced precision and accuracy during the surgery. This increased precision aids in ensuring optimal alignment and positioning of the artificial joint components, potentially leading to better long-term outcomes for patients.
Recovery Time: Robotic knee replacement surgery provides a shorter recovery period compared to conventional knee replacement surgery. Due to the smaller incisions involved in robotic knee replacement, there is reduced trauma to the surrounding tissue, which can lead to less pain and a faster recovery. While in conventional knee replacement, recovery may take longer, and patients might experience more postoperative pain and swelling.
Cost: Robotic knee replacement surgery is generally more expensive than traditional knee replacement surgery. The use of advanced technology and specialized equipment required for the procedure contributes to the higher cost.
Better Outcomes: Robotic knee replacement can result in better alignment of the implant, improved joint function, and potentially longer implant survival. Performing robotic knee replacement surgery requires specialized training and expertise. Conversely, in conventional knee replacement, the success of the surgery heavily depends on the surgeon's skill and experience in achieving proper alignment and fit of the implant. Conventional knee replacement has been performed for many years and has a well-established proven method.
Advantages of Robotic Knee Replacement Surgery
- Patients undergoing robotic knee replacement surgery often experience shorter hospital stays and are discharged earlier. This means they typically need fewer physical therapy sessions, resulting in a faster overall recovery.
- The use of robotics in knee replacement surgery can lead to reduced postoperative pain, stiffness, and discomfort. Consequently, patients may recover more quickly and rely less on pain medication.
- Robotic knee replacement surgery frequently involves smaller incisions, leading to less tissue damage, reduced scarring, and quicker recovery times.
- These factors contribute to improved long-term outcomes and higher patient satisfaction.
Sarvodaya Hospital, the best hospital in Faridabad offers high-quality knee replacement surgeries, supported by a state-of-the-art facility equipped with cutting-edge technology, our robust team of leading orthopaedic surgeons, i.e., the best knee replacement surgeons in Delhi NCR and an exceptional physiotherapy department. Our commitment is to deliver the best knee replacement surgery in Faridabad and the best possible pre-and post-operative care, enabling patients to return to normal lives and enhance their quality of life.
Whether you seek routine procedures or more complex interventions, our experienced team of orthopaedics is committed to guiding you through every step of your journey to improved health. With a focus on personalised care, our top robotic joint replacement surgeon in Faridabad, Delhi NCR provides expert advice, advanced treatment options, and compassionate support to ensure the best possible outcomes for our patients. From initial consultations to post-operative rehabilitation, our commitment is to deliver the best robotic knee replacement surgery in Faridabad, enabling patients to return to normal lives, regain mobility and enhance their quality of life.
