Knee pain is really a big obstacle in life. It makes every movement challenging, whether it is walking, climbing stairs, or getting out of bed. For many, knee replacement surgery becomes the best option when all other options have failed to provide relief. It promotes the restoration of movement and pain-free life.

With the advent of the latest technology, patients now have more options than before. However, deciding the right method is also a daunting task. Whether to choose robotic or traditional knee replacement and making the right procedure choice are essential for the patient's quick recovery and long-term success.

What is traditional knee replacement surgery?

For decades, most of the patients have been operated on using the tried-and-tested traditional approach, the conventional method of knee replacement. This technique uses X-ray pictures and depends on the surgeon's eye assessment, expertise and experience.

The traditional surgery for total knee replacement involves making a 6 to 8 inch incision using surgical tools and equipment. Now, latest technology has made this procedure less invasive, painless and stitchless.

In the traditional procedure of knee replacement surgery, the approach is dependent on vision as well as human judgment, and the procedure involves bone sectioning and balancing of the soft tissue.

Benefits of Traditional Knee Replacement

• Experience & expertise: Surgeons performing manual knee replacements tend to be very experienced and skilled in the procedure, which may lead to successful results.
• There are instances in which manual knee replacement surgery cost less than robot-assisted surgery, which then becomes more financially accessible for patients.
• Not every healthcare facility will have robot-assisted surgery available. Thus, manual knee replacement might be more readily available in some areas.
• Manual knee replacement has been done for many decades with a proven track record of success in enhancing mobility and pain reduction in patients with serious knee problems.

What is robotic knee replacement surgery?

Robotic knee replacement procedure is one of the latest surgical techniques for knee replacement, which combines the skill of a surgeon with precise technology. In robotic knee replacement surgery, a patient's knee is modeled virtually in order to form a pre-operative plan.

With the help of the computer, the surgeon guides a computer-programmed robotic arm in replacing a faulty knee component. With the use of a robotic arm that has been programmed for the treatment, the damaged knee components are replaced without causing any harm to the patient's healthy bone or surrounding tissues.

After that, an implant is implanted into the joint, making it easier to restore its range of motion and movements.

Benefits of Robotic Knee Replacement

There are several benefits of robotic knee replacement surgery that lead to a much improved experience and recovery time for the patient.

• It is minimally invasive and has lower blood loss.
• More precise placement of the implant leads to a more natural feeling after surgery.
• Lower risk of damage to the adjacent tissues leads to enhanced safety and a lower risk of infection
• The procedure allows early rehabilitation, shorter hospitalization, and less pain for the patient.
• Increased lifespan and survivability of implants.
• The risk of complications after the implantation of the prosthesis is lower.
• This latest technique lessens the strain on soft tissues and ligaments by using 3D mapping of the patient's natural joint movement. It helps the joint move naturally after the implant is implanted.
• This treatment leads to a lower chance of implant failure.

Robotic vs Traditional Knee Replacement Surgery: A Comparative Analysis

Both the robotic and traditional knee replacement surgeries are designed to lessen pain and restore mobility, but they do differ in the method of performing the procedure.

Robotic Knee Replacement employs advanced technology to aid the surgeon in the operation. It enables more accurate planning and implant placement, which can result in a more optimal fit and alignment. This can lead to quicker recovery and better long-term results for some patients.

Traditional Knee Replacement is dependent on the skill and experience of the surgeon to control the surgery manually. It has been successfully done for years and still is a good option for most patients. Many surgeons are highly skilled in traditional methods, which can lead to excellent outcomes without the need for robotic assistance. In fact, they can resolve any complication which robot may can’t detect.

Though both methods are effective, robotic surgery could prove more precise on a consistent basis. It may also not be universally available and could have higher expenses.

Ideal patient for knee replacement surgery

The orthopaedic surgeons explain that robotic joint replacement surgery has the ability to increase accuracy and improve the results for the patient. Your orthopaedic surgeon will be able to determine if you are a suitable candidate for robotic knee surgery. Such a decision is usually taken on the basis of the patient's age, comorbidities, extent of the joint damage, and the cost involved.

Osteoarthritis patients can opt for robotic knee surgery based on whether or not their condition has not advanced considerably. In some patients, the inflammation and stiffness with pain surrounding the knee area become unbearable and limit normal movement and activities of daily life.

Generally, if the pain and swelling are not relieved by prescription medication and physical therapy, then surgical intervention becomes the last resort for the patient.

Bottom line

There are benefits and some drawbacks of both robotic and traditional knee replacement surgery. However, robotically assisted operations offer significantly more precision and customisation than traditional treatments. They rely on the professional and experienced hands of a highly skilled surgeon.

Finally, your long-term goals, health, and personal preferences will determine whether you choose a robotic or traditional knee replacement.

You can easily seek the best robotic knee replacement in Delhi NCR according to your preference.