Robotic knee replacement

Robotic knee replacement is similar to traditional knee replacement surgery in that your surgeon removes damaged tissue in your knee and replaces it with an artificial joint. The difference is that a robotic procedure is done with assistance from a robotic arm that the surgeon operates to guide surgical cuts and implant alignment. There are several advantages of robot-assisted knee replacement surgery: 

• Enhanced surgical planning: Specialized 3D images are taken in preparation for and during surgery. These images help your surgeon accurately plan the optimal type and placement of your replacement joint to ensure the right size and fit. 
• Greater precision: Robotic technologies enable your orthopaedic surgeon to conduct more precise planning, tissue removal, and implant placement. 
• Optimal joint alignment: With robotic technology, your surgeon can better align and position your knee implant. This helps ensure a more natural-feeling joint replacement and create less friction and wear on your new joint. 

Penn Medicine is a leading academic medical center renowned for its innovative approaches to patient care. Our joint replacement program utilizes the latest technology to deliver precise and personalized surgical experiences, such as robot-assisted knee replacements, which enhance your surgeon’s skills to help deliver the best possible outcome for you.

Before robotic knee replacement surgery, you’ll get specialized scans that create a 3D image of your knee joint, bone structure, and surrounding tissues. This detailed picture helps your surgeon plan every step of your surgery. Cuts can be made with precision to the millimeter informing the right implant size and positioning. 

At the beginning of a robot-assisted surgery, your surgeon will use tracking pins to help the robot confirm that it received correct size and positioning information from your scans. Then, the robotic arm positions itself while your surgeon uses the handheld tool to perform your knee replacement. The tool continues to guide the surgeon throughout the procedure with exacting instrument placement for the utmost surgical accuracy.

If nonsurgical options such as bracing, physical therapy, and injections don’t provide sufficient knee pain relief, your doctor may recommend knee replacement surgery and explore whether robot-assisted options are right for you. If you are a candidate for traditional knee replacement surgery, you may be a candidate for robot-assisted knee replacement surgery as well.   

Robotic knee replacements are well-suited for even the most complex knee joint disease. This includes patients who have: 

• Deformities in the femur after an injury 
• Complex degeneration 
• Hardware from previous surgeries 

Your surgeon will discuss knee replacement options available to you, including whether you’re a good candidate for robotic joint replacement. 

The better prepared you are for your knee replacement surgery, the better positioned you are for a positive recovery experience. Preparation for knee replacement includes the same steps whether you are having robotic-assisted or conventional surgery. At Penn Medicine, our orthopaedic team will walk you through the process to help you understand what to expect.  

• Prior to the day of your surgery, your surgeon will use specialized CT scans, MRIs, or x-rays to create a 3D model of your knee, which will be used to guide the robotic system during the operation.  
• On the day of surgery, you’ll be given general anesthesia to put you to sleep or regional anesthesia to numb the lower half of your body, so you won’t experience pain during the procedure. 
• During your procedure, the surgeon will make an incision to access the knee joint while the robotic arm assists in removing damaged cartilage and bone and in positioning the prosthetic components. 
• If needed, an implant or liner will be inserted between the components to mimic the function of natural cartilage.  
• Your surgeon will check the range of motion and stability of the replacement joint before closing the incision with stitches or staples. 

Your surgeon and the rest of your Penn Medicine care team will monitor your progress, help to relieve discomfort, and chart a course for your recovery from knee replacement surgery, including pain management. As soon as possible, we’ll get you started on a comprehensive rehabilitation plan 

Individual recovery time varies based on your specific procedure, overall health, and adherence to physical therapy after surgery. Generally, you can expect to: 

• Go home the day of or the day after surgery and use a walker or crutches for a few weeks 
• Reduce or stop taking pain medication and notice significant improvements around two to four weeks 
• Transition to walking without assistive devices by four to six weeks and resume many daily activities, such as driving 
• Return to light exercise and low-impact activities in six weeks to three months 
• Resume more vigorous activities in three to 12 months 

Regaining full strength and mobility may take up to a year. 

Penn Medicine has a team of experts who specialize in robotic knee replacement and use the latest techniques and technology to optimize every step of your surgery. You can rely on: 

• Latest technology: We use advanced robotic systems for precise knee implant placement and alignment. 
• Skilled surgeons: Our team performs a high volume of knee replacements and is expertly trained in robot-assisted surgery. 
• Innovative pain management: We prioritize pain relief while minimizing the risks of opioid use and dependency. 
• Comprehensive care: From preoperative planning to postsurgical rehabilitation, we provide complete, personalized care.