Robotic Knee Surgery Procedure

• Small Incisions: The surgeon makes tiny incisions (usually about 3 inches) to insert a 3D camera and surgical tools.
• Visualization: The camera provides a magnified, 360-degree view of the knee, helping the surgeon navigate precisely.
• Surgical Execution: The surgeon uses robotic arms to control surgical instruments and remove the damaged parts of the knee. The robotic system ensures sub-millimeter precision, allowing the surgeon to replace the damaged components with new implants.
• Faster Healing: This technique reduces the risk of infection and promotes quicker recovery by minimizing tissue damage.

Who Needs Robotic Knee Replacement?

Candidates for robotic knee replacement typically have chronic knee pain and limited mobility due to conditions like osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or post-traumatic arthritis that have not responded to conservative treatments. Ideal candidates usually have significant joint damage visible on X-rays, with pain that interferes with daily activities. In general, patients who are in good health and do not have severe underlying conditions that could complicate surgery or recovery are suitable for robotic knee replacement.

This surgery is also well-suited for individuals who want a more precise and personalized approach. The robotic technology enhances the accuracy of implant placement, leading to better functional outcomes and potentially a quicker recovery compared to traditional surgery.

Types of Robotic Knee and Hip Replacement Procedures in India

• 1. Navio Surgical System: This system helps the surgeon by analyzing incisions and guiding implant placement and joint alignment.
• 2. Mako Robotic Surgery: This technique uses a different approach to help the surgeon follow the surgical plan accurately.

Advantages of Robotic Surgery

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  Precision and Accuracy: The robot provides detailed information to ensure the surgery is performed as accurately as possible.
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  Virtual Boundaries: The robot creates virtual boundaries on the bone surface, ensuring that only the damaged bone is removed, even if the surgeon deviates from the plan.
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  Better Implant Alignment: The robotic system ensures better prosthesis balance and positioning, leading to improved knee function and reduced risk of complications.
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  Reduced Risk of Nerve Injury: The precision of the robot reduces the chances of nerve damage and other disorders.
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  Faster Recovery: With minimal injury to surrounding tissues and muscles, patients can return to their active lifestyles sooner.
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  No Human Error: The robot provides a level of precision that human hands cannot match, increasing the likelihood of successful outcomes.
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  Longer Implant Lifespan: The precision of robotic surgery ensures that the implant is placed optimally, reducing the likelihood of needing revision surgery.
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  Reduced Risk of Infection: The minimally invasive approach lowers the risk of infections, speeding up recovery.
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  Less Pain and Blood Loss: Many patients experience less pain and faster recovery, as the surgery involves less blood loss.

Traditional vs. Robotic Knee Replacement Surgery

Traditional knee replacement surgery involves manual techniques, with the surgeon relying on their skill to remove damaged tissue and place the knee implant. While effective and proven, this method can sometimes result in less precision, leading to longer recovery times and potential variations in outcomes.

In contrast, robotic-assisted surgery uses advanced technology to create a 3D model of the knee, helping the surgeon plan and execute the surgery with greater accuracy. This improved precision can result in better alignment of the implant, reduced tissue damage, and faster recovery.

Although robotic surgery often involves higher initial costs and requires specialized surgeon training, the precision, consistency, and improved patient outcomes it offers can make it a more appealing option for many patients.

Recovery from Robotic Knee Replacement Surgery

Both traditional and robotic knee replacement surgeries offer favorable long-term results, but robotic surgery typically offers:

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  Fewer Complications: With a more precise, minimally invasive approach, the risk of complications is reduced.
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  Reduced Infection Risk: Less human contact during the procedure lowers the risk of infection.
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  Faster Recovery: The recovery time for robotic knee replacement surgery is generally 2-3 weeks, compared to 8 weeks for traditional surgery.
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  Patient Satisfaction: Robotic knee replacement is often highly effective, with many patients experiencing less pain and a quicker return to daily activities.
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  Complete Healing: While most patients recover within 2-3 weeks, full healing may take 3-4 weeks in rare cases.

Cost of Robotic Knee Replacement Surgery in India

India is becoming an increasingly popular destination for robotic knee replacement surgery due to its significantly lower cost compared to countries like the United States, the United Kingdom, and Singapore. The average cost for robotic knee replacement surgery in India ranges from USD 6000 to USD 6500 , whereas the same procedure in the US can exceed USD 30,000.

The cost of the procedure typically includes:

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  Hospital admission fees
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  Surgeon's fees
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  Pre-operative tests (such as X-rays and ECGs)
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  Post-operative care
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  Rehabilitation