Rate this post

Joint replacement surgery has become an increasingly common procedure in recent years, relieving people who have arthritis & joint injuries. As with any surgical procedure, there are inherent risks & complications, but technological advances have led to the development of new techniques & tools that help minimize these risks & improve outcomes. One such technology is robonavigation, which has revolutionized joint replacement surgery by providing unprecedented accuracy & precision.

Explore the Robonavigation in detail here…

Contents

Understanding Joint Replacement Surgery

Joint replacement surgery is when a damaged joint (damaged or worn due to injury, arthritis, or other conditions) is removed & replaced with an artificial joint (made of metal, plastic, or ceramic).

What is Robonavigation?

In the 1980s, robotics was introduced into orthopedic surgery to improve the accuracy of implant insertion, prosthesis alignment, and complication rates.

Robonavigation, also known as robotic-assisted surgery (RAS), is a computer-assisted navigation system that uses advanced imaging such as CT scans & MRI to create a 3D model of the joint & tracking technologies to help surgeons accurately place joint replacements. The system uses computerized 3D models of the patient’s anatomy to plan & execute the surgery precisely. The system also provides real-time feedback to the surgeon, allowing them to make adjustments during the surgery to ensure the best possible outcome.

Benefits of Robonavigation for Joint Replacement Surgery

Robonavigation technology provides many benefits for joint replacement surgery compared to traditional manual techniques. Some of the key benefits include:

  1. Improved accuracy: Robonavigation technology uses advanced imaging & mapping tools for precise measurements & guidance during surgery. This can help ensure the replacement joint is properly aligned & positioned, reducing the risk of complications such as dislocation, implant loosening, premature wear & so on.
  2. Personalized surgery: With Robonavigation, surgeons can create a 3D model of the patient’s joint & plan the surgery. This allows for a personalized approach that considers the patient’s unique anatomy & helps ensure optimal outcomes.
  3. Reduced risk: The robotic system can detect & correct any deviations in the surgical plan. By improving accuracy & precision, Robonavigation can help reduce the risk of complications during & after surgery.
  4. Faster recovery: Robonavigation-assisted joint replacement surgery has resulted in faster recovery times than traditional manual techniques. This can help patients return to daily activities more quickly & with less pain.
  5. Improved patient satisfaction: Because Robonavigation can help reduce the risk of complications & improve outcomes; patients may experience greater satisfaction with their joint replacement surgery.
  6. Minimize complication: As with any surgical procedure, Robonavigation is also associated with the possibility of complications. These include infection, blood clots, nerve injury, implant failure, & joint stiffness. However, studies have indicated that Robonavigation may have a lower risk of implant malalignment & blood loss during surgery than conventional joint replacement surgery.

You Might Refer Reading:

Knee Replacement Doctor in Pune

Hip Replacement Doctor in Pune

How Robonavigation Works During Joint Replacement Surgery

Robonavigation assists in joint replacement surgery, but how? Robonavigation technology provides real-time imaging & mapping tools to guide the surgeon during joint replacement surgery. Here’s how it works:

  1. Imaging & mapping: Before the surgery, the patient undergoes a CT scan or MRI to create a 3D joint model. This model is then loaded into the Robonavigation system, which uses specialized software to map the joint & plan the surgery by calculating the measurement of the femoral & tibial bone resection & selecting the exact size of the implant.
  2. Calibration: Before the surgery begins, the surgeon calibrates the Robonavigation system to ensure it is appropriately aligned with the patient’s anatomy.
  3. Tracking & monitoring: During the surgery, the Robonavigation system uses specialized sensors & cameras to track the movement of the surgical instruments & monitor the position & alignment of the replacement joint in real-time.
  4. Feedback & guidance: Based on the real-time imaging & mapping data, the Robonavigation system provides feedback & guidance to the surgeon, helping to ensure that the replacement joint is properly aligned & positioned.
  5. Adjustments: If necessary, the surgeon can adjust the position & alignment of the replacement joint based on the real-time feedback provided by the Robonavigation system.
  6. Confirmation: Once the replacement joint is properly positioned & aligned, the Robonavigation system can ensure the surgery is completed successfully.

Preparing for Robonavigation-Assisted Joint Replacement Surgery

If you are scheduled to undergo Robonavigation-assisted joint replacement surgery, there are a few steps you can take to prepare.

  1. Talk to your surgeon: Before the surgery, it’s essential to talk to your surgeon about what to expect during the procedure & any specific instructions or precautions you need to take.
  2. Follow pre-surgery instructions: Before undergoing surgery, your surgeon may provide you with specific instructions, such as stopping certain medications, fasting, or quitting unhealthy activity. Following these instructions carefully is important to ensure the best possible outcome.
  3. Plan for post-surgery care: You may require help with daily tasks while recovering after surgery. Systematize with family, close companions, or a professional caretaker for support.
  4. Prepare your home: Before you undergo surgery, you should prepare your residence for your return. This may involve clearing pathways, installing hold bars, and making other modifications to improve mobility and comfort.
  5. Ask questions: Don’t hesitate to ask your surgeon or healthcare provider any questions or concerns about the surgery. They can provide the information & guidance you need to feel confident & prepared for the procedure.

Risks & Limitations of Robonavigation for Joint Replacement Surgery

While Robonavigation technology offers several benefits for joint replacement surgery, it has some risks & limitations. Some considerations are as follows:

  • Robonavigation is only a tool that cannot replace a skilled surgeon but can increase precision & accuracy during surgery.
  • Robonavigation technology has a learning curve, which may prolong the duration of the surgery, & this applies to both the surgeon & the personnel.
  • Patients with specific medical issues may not be good candidates for robonavigation.
  • Rarely, the technology maymalfunction, which could possibly impact the surgical outcome.
  • Robonavigation is typically more expensive than conventional surgery, which may make it inaccessible to some patients.

Future of Robonavigation for Joint Replacement Surgery

The future of Robonavigation for joint replacement surgery is promising, with ongoing research & development aimed at improving the technology & making it more accessible to patients.

Research-Based Analysis of Robonavigation-assisted Joint Replacement Surgeries

Seung-Min Na et al., 2020 compared robotic, navigational, & traditional total knee arthroplasty (TKA) with a minimum 10-year follow-up. The study examined 515 knees & comprised 92 patients (103 knees) who had robotic TKA using ROBODOC®, 197 patients (225 knees) who had navigational TKA using Orthopilot, & 175 patients (187 knees) who had conventional TKA.

Clinical examinations, including the Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) score, Knee Society Score (KSS), Western Ontario & McMaster Universities (WOMAC), & Range of Motion (ROM), indicated improvements in all three groups without significant differences. In addition, the radiologic data demonstrated that the inclination of the femoral implant in the robotic group was superior to that of the other groups (p<0.05).

All three groups had good cumulative survival rates, with no significant difference (p=0.563). All three groups also had about the same number of complications.

The study demonstrated exceptional long-term survival & comparable clinical outcomes with robotic, navigational, & conventional TKA. However, robotic TKA demonstrated more precise positioning of the femoral component compared to the other techniques. The findings suggest that robotic TKA accuracy & efficacy may be evaluated with longer follow-ups & more significant populations.

Conclusion 

Robonavigation technology has revolutionized the field of joint replacement surgery, offering a promising option for patients who are seeking improved outcomes & faster recovery times. Robonavigation can enhance patient outcomes, minimize complications, & accelerate recovery time despite a few limitations.

However, both risks & benefits should be explored in depth with your surgeon, as with any other significant health alternative. By working with Dr. Aashish Arbat, the best joint replacement surgeon in Thane & exploring all available options, you can make an informed decision about the best approach to meet your individual needs & goals.

Dr. Aashish Arbat is indubitably the best Robotic Joint Replacement Surgeon in Pune, Maharashtra, India.

Reference