How Robotic Knee Replacement Differs from Traditional Surgery

Knee replacement surgery is a big step, one that can transform your everyday life. But joint replacement surgery also comes with a degree of risk, as well as a recovery process. Robert J. Otto, MD, knows the importance of fully understanding your options when it comes to any form of surgical intervention. 

That’s why we’re happy to provide a brief look at the differences between robotic knee replacement and the more traditional surgical approach. As always, we’re here to schedule an in-office visit for residents of Nashville, Murfreesboro, and Cookeville, Tennessee, who have additional questions or concerns. 

Your surgeon remains in complete control during robotic surgery

When you hear the term “robotic surgery,” it’s easy to develop a mental image of a blocky silver robot hovering over you, wielding sharp surgical instruments. Today’s robotic surgical platforms are technological marvels, but they’re also completely under the control of your very human surgeon. 

There’s no need to fear technology going awry when you consider robotic versus traditional surgery. These devices only perform tissue alterations guided by human experience and training. The robotic system is merely a tool, not an autonomous surgical resource. 

Now that we’ve covered this common misconception, let’s take a look at the benefits of robotic surgery. 

Robotic surgery does not require large incisions

One of the biggest advantages of robotic surgery is the fact that these systems can perform precise tissue alterations without a large open incision. Very small openings are all that’s needed for the camera and light apparatus to move through your body, as well as the slim surgical tools that remove damaged knee components and replace them with artificial materials. 

Smaller incisions mean less tissue disruption, faster healing times, less scarring, and a reduced risk of infection. It also allows for less time under anesthesia, as Dr. Otto won’t need to spend considerable time closing a large incision. 

Robotic surgery offers unparalleled dexterity and precision

Even the most experienced and highly skilled human hand has its limitations. Human hands can get tired, especially during long and complex surgical procedures. But surgical robotic arms can hold instruments in a variety of positions for as long as necessary. 

Surgical robotic platforms also offer an impressive degree of dexterity. While a surgeon’s hand can only bend and flex to a certain point, a robotic arm can rotate in all directions and achieve angles the human wrist simply can’t match. 

Robotic surgical devices can also perform incredibly precise tissue alterations. Because Dr. Otto can “see” the interior of your knee projected onto a screen, he can direct the robotic arm to move in whatever direction necessary to replace joint components, including in minute increments. 

Many surgeons prefer robotic surgery 

Traditional surgical procedures require a large incision to gain access to a damaged joint. Visually assessing the area isn’t always easy, as bleeding and tissue placement can obstruct the view. 

Robotic surgery offers the chance to completely replace a damaged knee without taking on the same level of risk as open surgery. Surgeons love the precision and efficiency of these platforms, and once they’re trained in robotic-assisted surgery, they often prefer the approach. 

Ready to explore robotic knee replacement in more detail?

If you’re considering your options for knee replacement surgery, we’re happy to meet with you to determine if robotic knee replacement is a good fit for your needs and to answer any questions you have about the process. 

Setting up a visit with Robert J. Otto, MD, is as easy as a quick call to our office location most convenient for you, or a few moments on our simple online booking tool. We look forward to sitting down with you to go over all available options and provide the details you need to make an informed decision about your treatment plan.