Difference Between Robotic and Traditional Knee Replacement

The knee is a highly functional joint. Your knee relies on a delicately balanced system of bones, ligaments, cartilage, muscles, and nerves, whether you are walking, crouching, or standing still. If any parts of your knee are affected by an injury, arthritis, or another disease, you might require knee replacement surgery.

Traditional knee replacement surgery is a common operation used for treating chronic knee pain caused by arthritis or any other degenerative disorders. As advanced knee replacement technology has developed, robotic knee replacement surgery has become a more complex and precise knee replacement surgical method. Compared to traditional knee replacement, which is done manually by the surgeon, robotic knee replacement uses computer-assisted technology to advise the surgeon during the process.

Here, we will look at how robotic vs traditional knee replacement differs from each other.

What is Traditional Knee Replacement?

For many surgeons, the traditional method of knee replacement, commonly known as the conventional method, has long been the preferred treatment option. This technique uses x-ray images and depends only on the surgeon's visual assessment and direct manual surgery. Using common surgical tools and equipment, an incision is made during the traditional knee replacement surgery.

Steps Involved in Traditional Knee Replacement 

In a traditional knee replacement, the prosthetic components are aligned and fitted using manual procedures and the surgeon's expertise. Standard surgical tools and jigs guide implant placement and bone cuts. The following are the steps:

1. Before starting with the procedure, regional or general anaesthesia will be given to the patient to avoid pain.
2. The surgeon creates a cut (10-12 inches) down the front of your knee, then moves your kneecap (patella) to the side to access the knee joint behind it.
3. They remove the injured ends of your thigh bone (femur) and shin bone (tibia).
4. The new joint is made by fitting new parts over the ends of both bones. Usually, the parts are composed of plastic and metal. Some persons may also have the back of their kneecap (patella) replaced with a new part.
5. The kneecap (patella) is repositioned.
6. The surgeon applies a dressing and bandage over the cut on your knee after closing it with stitches or clips.
7. After the procedure, you will remain in a recovery room until you are completely conscious, during which you might be prescribed analgesics.

Traditional Knee Replacement Pros and Cons

There are various benefits and drawbacks to the traditional method of total knee replacement. To discuss traditional knee replacement pros and cons, let us first look at several benefits, which are as follows:

• Readily available: Traditional knee replacement procedures are performed at the majority of large hospitals and orthopaedic clinics.
• Large track record: Surgeons with an extensive track record of success have a thorough understanding of the possible results and complications associated with traditional knee replacements.

The traditional approach to knee replacement has certain drawbacks, such as:

• Longer recovery time: Because the operation is more intrusive, patients usually have a longer recovery time.
• Less accurate implant placement: The precision of implant placement is largely dependent on the surgeon's expertise, which may differ.

What is Robotic-Assisted Knee Replacement Surgery?

A traditional knee replacement is comparable to a robotic knee replacement. Your surgeon will replace the damaged knee tissue with an artificial joint. The main difference is that it is carried out with the help of a robotic arm, enabling increased accuracy. In more complicated situations, a robotic-assisted knee replacement improves joint alignment and balance in the soft tissues around the knee. According to studies, the robotic knee replacement success rate is much higher.

Steps Involved in Robotic-Assisted Knee Replacement Surgery

Robot-assisted surgery uses advanced knee replacement technology such as a robotic arm, computer navigation, as well as imaging equipment. Throughout the process, these tools enable precise adjustments and offer real-time feedback. The steps are as follows:

1. Before robotic knee replacement surgery, you will receive specialized CAT scans that produce a 3-D representation of your knee joint, bone structure, and the surrounding tissues. 
2. Similarly to traditional surgery, an incision is made above the knee with millimetre precision to select the appropriate implant size and location.
3. Regional or general anaesthesia will be administered to the patient to guarantee their comfort throughout the process.
4. The surgeon will put up the robotic arm. The arm is connected to a computer that can interact with the patient's knee joint's 3D model. The damaged bone and tissue from the knee joint will then be removed by the surgeon using the arm to make precise incisions.
5. The surgeon will insert the implant within the knee joint after the removal of the damaged bone and tissue. The implant could be composed of plastic, metal, or a combination of both.
6. The surgeon will use staples or stitches to seal the incision when the implant is in place. After that, the patient will be brought to a recovery room, where they will be constantly monitored until they are awakened from the anaesthesia.

Robotic-Assisted Knee Replacement Surgery Pros and Cons

When compared to traditional surgery, robotic-assisted knee replacement surgery has several benefits. Advantages include:

• Improved surgical planning: Specialized 3-D images are obtained before and during surgery. To ensure the proper size and fit, these images will help your surgeon more precisely determine the best type and placement for your replacement joint.
• More accuracy: Your orthopaedic surgeon's expertise is improved by robotic technologies, allowing for more accurate implant placement, tissue removal, and planning.
• Optimal joint alignment: Your surgeon can more precisely align and place your knee implant by using robotic technology. This reduces wear and friction on your new joint and helps guarantee a more successful joint replacement.

The following are the drawbacks of robotically assisted knee replacement surgery:

• Higher cost: Compared to traditional surgery, robotic knee replacements may be more costly. The price covers the robotic systems' maintenance, training, and modern technology.
• Availability: Depending on the region and facility's capabilities, robotic knee replacement surgery may not be widely available.

Robotic Knee Surgery vs. Conventional Knee Surgery: Understanding Differences

Patients commonly ask about the differences between robotic knee surgery vs conventional knee surgery techniques when considering knee replacement surgery. We will provide you with a thorough comparison below so you can see the primary differences. 

Conclusion

A robot cannot do robotic-assisted knee replacement surgery on its own. Rather, it serves as a guide, assisting your surgeon in adhering to the predetermined plan. Knee pain and arthritis can be effectively treated with traditional and robotic knee replacements. Your unique circumstances and preferences will determine the best solution for you. To choose which procedure is best for you, discuss the benefits and drawbacks of each with our experienced specialists at Apollo Spectra. They will help you decide which option is best for you by explaining the differences between robotic vs traditional knee replacement. Book an Appointment today to get rid of constant joint pain.