Iowa (563) 322-0971
Illinois (309) 762-3621
Illinois (309) 762-3621
Assisted-robotic orthopedic technology is now available at ORA Orthopedics to be used in conjunction with total knee replacement surgery. The orthopedic robotics system provides a high-tech tool for joint replacement surgeons to help ensure every knee replacement is optimized – allowing years of unrestricted, stable movement for active patients.
Aligning the knee to a patient’s unique anatomy to optimize flexibility, natural motion, and strength is the goal of total knee replacement surgery.
Orthopedic robotic technology uses either a preoperative CT scan or a series of x-rays to render a three- and four-dimensional digital view of the knee. This provides an accurate view to assist your surgeon in designing a personalized plan based on the specifics of your individual knee anatomy for optimal mechanical alignment. The assisted-robotic technology functions like a high-tech GPS system utilizing optical trackers and cameras to determine the position of your knee in space. Throughout the procedure, the robot provides a real-time view of the knee to assist the surgeon if necessary to ensure accuracy and precision in the placement of the implant.
Orthopedic robotics is one tool to help the surgeon to align the knee to a patient’s anatomy. In the preoperative planning process, a series of x-rays build a multi-dimensional model of the knee, which allows your surgeon to determine the size of implant, as well as the best location to make bone cuts for mechanical alignment. Everyone’s knee is different. ORA strives for the best and most natural knee possible.
No. Total joint surgeons always remain in complete control. The robot’s dimensional model and its visual array provides real-time feedback during the surgery to assist the physician if needed in adjusting the knee’s flexion and extension for optimal stability. Real-time data and visual feedback ensure accuracy and precision in the placement of the knee implants.
Currently, ORA offers this option for total knee and hip replacement procedures. As technology improves, ORA will always consider enhancements that will improve overall surgical outcomes.
Patients can undergo this procedure as either an inpatient or outpatient. Length of stay is primarily determined based on a patient’s current health history.
The orthopedic robotics system is not a replacement for the surgical procedure. The joint surgeon operates the robot and considers its recommendations. It cannot replace the skills of your experienced surgeon. The robotic system is a tool in our arsenal of care and allows us to tailor a treatment plan for every unique patient.
We use the same implant, regardless of which surgical procedures we employ. Current implants are excellent and long lasting. Depending on the patient, a knee can last over 20 years.
We encourage our patients to ask about the options available to them including using assisted robotic technology. Through the preoperative planning process, your surgeon will discuss options with you and determine if the use of robotics will provide overall benefit for your joint replacement procedure.
The hospital does not charge more for the use of the robot. It is billed the same as a standard joint replacement. We will preauthorize the surgery with your insurance company just like a standard joint replacement.
Robotic-assisted technology has only recently been adapted for use in the total joint replacements. We do not have sufficient data yet to know if it improves overall outcomes. It is the skill and experience of the surgeon that best determines the overall success rate for total joint replacement.
Age is not really a factor in determining whether you are a candidate for robotic-assisted total joint replacement. Overall, general health and BMI are the more important factors in that determination.
