Robotically-assisted Knee Replacement

🦵 What Is Robotic Knee Replacement Surgery?

Robotic knee replacement is a type of knee replacement surgery that uses computer-guided robotic technology to assist the surgeon in performing the procedure with greater accuracy and precision.

The surgery itself is still performed by Mr. Alanie, but the robot helps plan and guide certain steps — making it more tailored to each patient’s unique anatomy. Mr. Alanie offers robotically-assisted knee replacement surgery at the Woodlands Suite, the Royal Orthopaedic Hospital.

Robotic assistance can be used in both:

  • Total knee replacement

  • Partial knee replacement (including patellofemoral replacement)

🛠️ How Does It Work?

  1. CT Scan: Before surgery, detailed scans of your knee are taken to create a 3D model of your joint.

  2. Surgical Planning: The surgeon uses this model to plan the exact size, position, and alignment of the implant.

  3. Robotic Assistance: During surgery, the robot provides real-time feedback and helps the surgeon cut bone with sub-millimetre precision, preserving as much healthy tissue as possible.

The robot acts like a smart assistant — guiding the surgeon’s tools and stopping them from moving outside the planned area.

🎯 What Are the Benefits?

  • Greater precision in implant placement

  • Better alignment, which may improve the feel and longevity of the new joint

  • May reduce soft tissue damage and early post-operative pain

  • Leads to quicker early recovery and shorter hospital stay

  • May help patients return to daily activities sooner

🧑‍⚕️ Who Is It For?

Most people who are candidates for a traditional knee replacement may also be suitable for robotic-assisted surgery. It’s especially useful for:

  • Younger, active patients looking for long-lasting results

  • Complex knee anatomies or deformities

  • Those who want the latest surgical techniques used in their care

⚠️ Considerations

  • It’s not “robot-performed surgery” — the surgeon is still fully in control.

  • Like any knee replacement, recovery still takes weeks to months, and success depends heavily on rehabilitation.

  • Outcomes are generally similar to traditional surgery when done by an experienced surgeon — but precision and planning may offer added benefits in the long term.