A New Frontier In Hip Replacements
Severe, chronic hip pain is a common occurrence, especially with age. The reason? Permanent damage or wear and tear of the cartilage and bone of that major joint. These symptoms can be caused by the many forms of arthritis, a past hip fracture, or dislocation. The pain and inflammation can lead to stiffness, reduced mobility, and, eventually, poor health outcomes. A hip replacement has long been the solution for these issues, especially if conservative treatment fails to improve symptoms. While effective, the traditional surgery comes with limitations. With the advent of robotic-assisted surgery, recovery may be faster, with improved outcomes.
Can a robot perform your hip replacement?
A hip replacement removes a damaged or degenerated joint and installs a prosthetic. The replacement is designed to mimic the natural shape and function of the hip, consisting of a metal ball attached to a stem. The ball fits into a titanium socket with a plastic lining. The term robotic-assisted surgery gives the impression that an automated or autonomous robot performs the procedure. This is an innovative strategy where the surgeon uses a robotic arm device to assist in performing the surgery. The device guides the surgeon through the procedure with precise, pre-programmed movements based on a model of the patient’s joint. The robotic arm is a tool that accelerates the process, providing benefits to patients and surgeons.
Technology that benefits everyone
The robotic arm device improves accuracy and precision, ensuring advanced joint placement. The device uses a computed tomography (CT) scan to map out the joint and the possible dimensions of the prosthesis, leading to better outcomes. Robotic-assisted surgery uses minimally invasive techniques, which involve small incisions to access and replace the joint. The result is less blood loss, less postoperative pain, and minor scars. Patients can also leave surgical centers on the same day. Surgeons also benefit from robotic procedures. The device builds confidence, recalibrates in real time, and allows for more efficient surgeries.
How is robotic-assisted surgery performed?
The procedure starts before the operating room. The medical team uses CT scans of the patient’s hip joint to create a 3D model. The information helps to measure and create the most accurate joint replacement possible. On the day of surgery, the patient receives general anesthesia. The medical team will decide the ideal point of entry, which is above the hip or the side of the joint. The robotic arm now comes into play as the surgeon sits behind a console to control the device. The damaged parts are removed, and the robotic arm helps the surgeon position the new prosthesis, ensuring accurate alignment. The arm recommends adjustments during the procedure in real time. Once the replacement is installed, the surgeon tests the movement of the joint and then closes the incisions. As robotic surgery is minimally invasive, the patient is likely to leave on the same day.
Does a hip replacement 2.0 mean faster recovery?
There is evidence that innovative hip replacements with robotics can speed up recovery, especially when compared to traditional methods. The increased accuracy of robotic-assisted surgery leads to a natural feeling and movement. There are also fewer complications like leg length variance, infection, spine problems, and joint misalignments. Patients can also start recovery sooner thanks to smaller incisions, less tissue damage, and less blood loss. Many patients also report that the joint feels more natural, allowing for higher-intensity physical therapy (PT) sessions. Growing evidence states that robotic joint replacements can lead to a faster return to everyday activities.
What about success rates?
Robotic-assisted hip replacements can lead to better outcomes in certain situations. Studies show the procedure leads to more accurate joint implants, which reduces the risk of uneven leg length. The procedure also has fewer complications, such as infections or blood loss, which can increase overall success rates. There is also no significant difference between traditional surgery and robotic surgery in terms of success rate. The patient can therefore achieve excellent outcomes without the known drawbacks of traditional surgery. Robotic-assisted surgery may have limitations. The length of surgery may be longer, and some patients may not be ideal candidates. As research continues in the somewhat young field, more evidence will point to higher success rates.
Enjoy a new hip with robotics
Hip replacements go a long way in helping to reduce pain, restoring mobility, and improving quality of life. The traditional means are still effective, but do come with additional risks. Robotic-assisted surgery seeks to use minimally invasive means to reduce the risk, increase accuracy, and speed up recovery. The evidence so far shows that the robotic-assisted option sets up the conditions for improved outcomes. When choosing hip replacements, explore the possibility of a robotic-assisted option with the medical team.
