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Robotic Partial Knee Replacement

Overview

Robotic partial knee replacement is an advanced partial knee replacement that used robotic technology to enhance precision during partial knee replacement surgery. The robot provides real-time feedback, helping surgeon achieve accurate implant alignment and placement. The procedure is minimally invasive, involving smaller incisions, less tissue damage, and quicker recovery compared to traditional methods. Only the affected part of the knee is replaced while preserving the healthy sections.

Key features include:

  • Robotic precision from real-time feedback, which helps the surgeon achieve precise implant alignment and placement.
  • Minimally invasive procedure compared to traditional methods, the procedure typically involves smaller incisions, promoting quicker recovery and less tissue damage.

Robotic partial knee replacement is recommended for patients with arthritis in just one compartment of the knee, offering an alternative to total knee replacement or osteotomy. This procedure is particularly suited for older adults (usually over 60), those with a low activity level, and individuals with a body weight under 82 kg. It is effective in addressing symptoms such as

  • Localised knee pain often due to arthritis or injury.
  • Knee stiffness i.e., limited range of motion, especially after prolonged periods of rest or inactivity.
  • Knee swelling due to inflammation and fluid buildup.
  • Difficulty performing daily activities, including walking, climbing stairs, or other common tasks.

  • Inflammatory arthritis
  • Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) damage
  • Severe deformities in knee alignment (varus or valgus greater than specified degrees)
  • Limited knee motion (arc of motion less than 90°)
  • Severe knee contractures
  • Previous meniscus surgery in other knee compartments
  • Advanced (tricompartmental) arthritis or widespread knee pain
  • Grade IV patellofemoral arthritis (severe pain in the front of the knee)

Surgery is performed under anaesthesia; the surgeon uses a robotic system to remove the damaged portion of the knee and places the implant with high precision for optimal alignment and fit.

The surgery typically lasts 1–2 hours, depending on the extent of the damage and patient-specific factors.

Preparation includes:

  • Comprehensive patient evaluation and imaging to determine suitability
  • Education about the surgery and recovery expectations
  • Optimisation of any medical conditions prior to surgery
  • Planning rehabilitation strategies for the postoperative period.

The procedure's success depends on careful pre-surgical planning, the skill of the surgical team, and adherence to rehabilitation and osteoarthritis care protocols.

Although generally safe, complications may occur depending on the age and general health of the patient:

  • Blood clots
  • Infections at the wound site
  • Nerve and/or tissue damage
  • Instability of the new knee joint
  • Pain/difficulty while bending the knee, standing up, or walking

Rehabilitation involves:

  • Early initiation of physical therapy and home exercises to restore strength, mobility, and function.
  • Pain management with medications and supportive techniques
  • Wound care with regular cleaning, covering, and monitoring for infection
  • Lifestyle adjustments, including avoiding high-impact activities (running and jumping) and focusing on low-impact activities (walking and swimming).

Generally, robotic partial knee replacement is associated with excellent outcomes, greatly providing relief from knee pain and restoring a significant amount of knee mobility. Often, complete recovery requires up to 1 year; this varies from patient to patient. Nevertheless, patients may resume their daily activities within 6 weeks of surgery, though complete recovery can take up to 1 year. Long-term outcomes are excellent, with over 90% of functional after 15 and 85% after 25 years, demonstrating high implant longevity.

Disclaimer:

The information in this Health Library is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional with any questions about a medical condition or before starting any treatment. Use of this site and its content does not establish a doctor–patient relationship. In case of a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or visit the nearest emergency facility immediately.