Robotic-Assisted Hip and Knee Surgery: How Does It Work?

Joint replacement surgery has evolved alongside improvements in orthopedic technology and surgical planning. One advancement patients often ask about is robotic-assisted technology used during certain hip and knee procedures. The surgeon performs the operation while the robotic platform provides guidance during specific stages before and during the surgery.

These systems combine imaging, computerized planning, and intraoperative guidance to support accurate implant placement (American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, 2024). Below is a closer look at what robotic-assisted joint replacement is and how the technology is used during hip and knee surgery.

What Is Robotic-Assisted Joint Replacement?

Robotic-assisted hip and knee surgery is joint replacement performed by a surgeon using a robotic guidance system. The technology does not operate independently.

Imaging obtained before surgery is used to create a digital model of the joint, which helps plan implant size and positioning. During the procedure, the system tracks instruments and joint movement in real time so the surgeon can visualize the anatomy and placement in real time. Research reviewing robotic hip and knee replacement procedures has reported improved accuracy in implant positioning and alignment compared with conventional techniques, although further long-term studies are still needed to evaluate how these technical improvements affect patient outcomes (Sousa et al., 2020; Kayani et al., 2020).

What Conditions May Be Treated With Robotic-Assisted Joint Replacement

Robotic-assisted technology is most commonly used in surgical procedures treating degenerative joint disease. 

Osteoarthritis remains the most common reason patients undergo hip or knee replacement surgery. As cartilage gradually deteriorates, the joint can become painful and stiff. When treatments such as physiotherapy, medication, or activity modification no longer provide adequate relief, joint replacement surgery may be considered. Robotic assistance technology may be incorporated into procedures involving hip surgery or knee surgery, including total hip replacement surgery, total knee replacement, and selected partial knee replacement procedures.

How Robotic-Assisted Surgery Works

Pre-Surgical Planning

The process begins before the day of surgery. Imaging, such as CT scans or specialized X-rays, captures detailed views of the joint. These images are used to create a three-dimensional digital model of the patient’s anatomy.
This model allows the surgeon to study the joint closely and prepare a surgical plan in advance. Implant size and positioning can be mapped out before entering the operating room making the procedure more efficient (MacKenzie, 2023).

Guidance During Surgery

During the procedure, the robotic system tracks the position of the joint and surgical instruments. Temporary trackers may be attached to nearby bones so the system can measure movement and positioning.
This information allows the surgeon to compare the real-time conditions in the operating room with the surgical plan developed earlier.

Bone Preparation and Implant Placement

Bone preparation involves removing the damaged surfaces of the joint so the artificial implant can be placed. The surgeon controls the robotic instrument while following the surgical plan displayed on the system.
Many robotic platforms establish virtual boundaries that define the area where bone removal should occur. This guidance helps maintain accuracy during the procedure.
Once the joint surfaces are prepared, the artificial hip or knee components are placed and the surgeon evaluates joint movement and positioning.

Discover Robotic Surgery at Ortho Westmount

Robotic-assisted hip and knee surgery introduces additional planning tools that can support joint replacement procedures. Imaging allows surgeons to review the joint closely before surgery, while computer-guided systems can assist with carrying out the surgical plan in the operating room. The surgeon remains responsible for every stage of the procedure and uses the technology as a guidance tool during specific parts of the operation.
At Ortho Westmount, our knee and hip surgery treatment planning begins with a detailed orthopedic evaluation and review of imaging. Surgical recommendations are based on the condition of the joint, the patient’s symptoms, and clinical findings. When robotic-assisted technology is appropriate for a procedure, it may be incorporated into the surgical plan. Learn more about orthopedic assessment or treatment options at our orthopedic clinic and contact us for further information.

References

American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. (2024). Robotic-assisted joint replacement. https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/treatment/robotic-assisted-joint-replacement/
Kayani, B., Konan, S., Pietrzak, J., & Haddad, F. (2020). Robotic-arm assisted total knee arthroplasty: A systematic review and meta-analysis. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7251009/
MacKenzie, S. (2023). Robotic assisted surgery for knee and hip replacements. https://www.drstuartmackenzie.com.au/robotic-assisted-surgery-knee-and-hip-replacements/
Mayo Clinic. (2024). Robotic orthopedic surgery overview. https://www.mayoclinic.org/departments-centers/robotic-orthopedic-surgery/overview/ovc-20472153/

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