A Revolution In Joint Replacement Surgery

Joint replacement surgery helps millions of adults who struggle with chronic joint pain due to injury, bone conditions, or arthritis. The procedure removes the damaged bone and cartilage and then installs a replacement prosthesis. After extensive rehabilitation, the patient can enjoy more mobility and less pain. While joint replacements have been around for many decades, the practice has benefitted from innovation and technology. Now, orthopedic surgeons use robotics to perform better, more efficient joint replacements. A robotic arm-assisted joint replacement has many advantages and patients are seeking this option with more regularity.

rio-orthopedic-sports-medicine-Revolutionary-Robotic-Arm-Assisted-Joint-Replacement-The-Future-Of-Orthopedic-Surgery

What is robotic arm-assisted joint replacement?

Robotic arm-assisted joint replacement is performed using a unique device with a robotic arm attachment. The robot arm has similar digits and movements to the human hand but with much more stability and precision, down to the nearest millimeter. The surgeon controls the robot arm behind a console and performs the joint replacement using minimally invasive means. The console and arm are programmed to meet the requirements for joint replacement. The surgeon can make incisions, remove damaged cartilage and bone, and install the prosthesis with the device. Robotic arm-assisted joint replacement has amazing benefits compared to open surgery and even minimally invasive surgeries.

Planning and precision

Joint replacement starts before the operating room. The device uses 3D imaging and even artificial intelligence (AI) to create a pre-surgical plan tailored to the needs of the patient. The device can also help determine the best dimensions for the prosthesis. On the day of surgery, the robotic arm is pre-programmed with the agreed measurements and works within these parameters. For the patient and surgeon, this means more accurate positioning. The device can also make real-time adjustments during surgery, increasing the surgeon’s accuracy and joint positioning. These adjustments are challenging with traditional surgery methods.

Benefits for all involved

Thanks to planning and precision, patients and surgeons benefit from robotic arm-assisted surgery. The process also uses minimally invasive incisions but with even more accuracy. For the patient, this means smaller incisions and scars, less blood loss, and lower postoperative pain. Surgeons achieve better implant alignment, leading to longevity, accuracy, and a better patient experience. Statistics show high success rates and a reduced recovery time due to less tissue trauma. The pre-planned procedure allows less experienced doctors to perform joint replacements with confidence. As the system creates a custom solution, surgeons achieve more consistency across procedures, which helps the hospital’s reputation.

Paving the future of joint replacement

Joint replacement continues to evolve and will help patients achieve better outcomes. The rise of AI means more integration, leading to better decisions, faster procedures, and even predictability. The software and robotic arm will push the boundaries, leading to personalized implants, and custom procedures based on the long-term goals of the patient. Cost and accessibility are challenges for smaller institutions. However, as demand rises and cost decreases, more efforts will be made to get robotic arm-assisted devices to the masses. However, there is still a growing trend in surgical centers and hospitals that can offer robotic arm-assisted surgeries.

Get in on this revolutionary ride

Joint replacements and other surgeries will eventually be led by robotics and skilled surgeons behind the machine. Like any tool, robotic arm devices help surgeons be more accurate and efficient. Patients also benefit from prosthetic joints tailored to the joint and mobility. As the procedure is minimally invasive, patients can leave the same day and begin rehabilitation sooner. The device also reduces the timeline for returning to work or physical activity. Robotic arm-assisted joint replacement is not for everyone as some circumstances require traditional methods. An orthopedic surgeon can provide more insight into the benefits of achieving a new joint with robotics.

Recent Blogs