Smaller Incisions, Faster Recovery: The Benefits Of Robotic Joint Replacement

Fast Track Recovery After Joint Replacement Surgery

Whether because of a degenerative disease like arthritis or from sustained intense use by high performance athletes, eventually some people may require total joint replacements (TJR). A variety of locations in the body may require surgical interventions including the more common hips and knees, followed by the elbows and ankles. Historically, joint replacement was a lengthy and intrusive procedure that included extended recovery timelines. However, minimally invasive surgery techniques are changing that reality.

Understanding TJR

The formal name for joint replacement surgery is arthroplasty. The procedure requires replacing damaged or worn-out parts of the joints with prosthetic materials that are not only durable but also carry a low risk of being rejected by the body. Joint replacement can be partial or total, meaning that a part of the bones in the joint are removed and replaced, or all of the bones are replaced. Ultimately, the total scope of existing damage, as well as the risk of bone degeneration progressing, will dictate whether a patient has a full or partial replacement.

Causes and solutions

Arthritis is one of the main contributing factors that might encourage an orthopedic surgeon to recommend joint replacement. Poor blood supply to the bones is another cause. The most popular materials used in an arthroscopy are ceramic, metal, and plastic. An individual’s age, activity level, joint damage, and weight will influence whether a surgeon recommends partial or total replacement, the type of surgery (open or laparoscopic), and the materials used.

Laparoscopic joint replacements

Historically, joint replacement surgeries were performed as open operations. A large incision was made on the affected joint to create an opening through the skin and muscle to expose the damaged bones. Once visible, a surgeon would work to remove the deteriorating bone matter and then insert and secure the replacement materials before closing the incision. Minimally invasive laparoscopic surgery is primarily different because of the smaller cuts required to access the injured joint. Instead of relying on traditional surgical instruments, the orthopedic surgeon will use laparoscopic tools that feature miniature scapals, cameras, and other devices to accurately access the damaged tissue and carefully insert the replacement joints.

Minimally invasive benefits

One of the biggest benefits of undergoing a minimally invasive laparoscopic joint replacement surgery is the shorter recovery timeline. With traditional methods, recovering patients would expect to spend between 6-12 weeks during the initial healing period but as much as a full year to regain full mobility and strength. Note that specific timelines will vary depending on the joint being treated, the severity of the damage and adherence to recovery guidelines. However, with laparoscopies, the time is greatly reduced, with many patients returning to work and basic activities within 2-6 weeks of surgery.

Making the right choice

Many factors influence whether a person is a good candidate for traditional or laparoscopic joint replacement surgery. Even though minimally invasive joint replacement has significant benefits, not every individual with degenerating joints is a good candidate. To learn more about the criteria for recommending laparoscopy over an open surgery, consider speaking with an orthopedic surgeon.