Knee replacement surgery is now a common way to ease knee pain, helping many people get back on their feet. With new technology, robotic-assisted knee replacements are on the rise. But which option is best for you?
Let’s break down both traditional and robotic-assisted knee replacements to help you choose the right path for your healing.
Understanding Knee Replacement
In knee replacement surgery, the damaged parts of the knee joint are replaced with artificial pieces. These pieces are made from medical-grade materials, and might be plastic, ceramic, or even metal parts. Knee replacement surgery is often needed when the knee is badly hurt. This typically stems from arthritis or an injury.
Common signs that you might need this surgery include constant pain, swelling, and trouble walking.
Who Needs Knee Replacement Surgery?
People who might need knee replacement surgery are those who have a lot of knee pain that makes their daily life hard.
If medicines, physical therapy, or changes in lifestyle do not help, knee replacement might be necessary for you to continue your preferred lifestyle.
And if you find it painful to walk, climb stairs, or even sit, then knee replacement surgery might be the right choice.
What Is Traditional Knee Replacement?
Traditional knee replacement is a procedure used to repair severely damaged knees. During this operation, the damaged parts of the knee joint are removed. Your orthopedic surgeon will replace them with artificial components made of metal and plastic. This allows the knee to move more smoothly and reduces pain.
Pre-Operative Phase
Before the surgery, you will go through a complete medical check-up. This usually includes blood tests, X-rays, and sometimes MRI scans.
You may need to stop taking some medications and follow specific fasting rules before the surgery. Your physician will provide you with comprehensive instructions to prepare you for the upcoming procedure.
Surgical Phase
In the surgical phase, the surgeon begins by making an incision over your knee. They then proceed to eliminate any injured bone and cartilage.
Afterwards, they prepare the knee joint and insert the artificial components to replace the removed parts. This entire procedure typically lasts around two hours.
Post-Operative Phase
After the surgery, recovery is very important. You will need to go through several weeks of physical therapy to help your knee get stronger and move better again. Managing pain is also crucial during this time, so you might be given medications to help with that.
The doctor will show you specific exercises to do at home to help with your recovery. It can take several months to fully recover and get back to normal activities.
What Is Robotic-Assisted Knee Replacement?
Robotic-assisted knee replacement represents a modern approach to performing this surgical procedure. It uses advanced technology to help with the surgery. It has several advantages compared to the traditional way of doing knee replacements.
How It Works
In this method, a robotic arm aids the surgeon throughout the procedure. The surgeon precisely maneuvers the arm to ensure the artificial components are in the right place.
An advanced computer will generate a 3D model of your knee. This aids the surgeon in planning and executing the surgery with enhanced precision.
Benefits of Robotic Surgery
One of the biggest benefits is the precision of the robotic system. It helps the surgeon place the new knee parts more accurately. Robotic surgery has increased precision, which makes your new knee feel natural. This precision also means you might have less pain and recover faster.
To add, the 3D model helps the surgeon see your knee better.
Comparison with Traditional Surgery
Robotic-assisted knee replacement generally has fewer complications because of its accuracy. This reduces the chance of mistakes.
However, not everyone is a good candidate for this kind of surgery. Your surgeon will assist you in determining whether robotic-assisted surgery represents the optimal choice for your circumstances.
How to Decide Between Traditional and Robotic Surgery
Choosing the right type of knee replacement surgery is an important decision that needs careful thought. Here are some tips:
Questions to Ask Your Surgeon
Ask these questions to your surgeon:
- What are the pros and cons of traditional versus robotic-assisted surgery?
- What can I anticipate throughout the recovery journey for each type?
- Can you tell me about robotic-assisted knee replacements you have performed before?
- What are the potential risks and complications for each method?
Considerations
Think about your overall health and medical history. Some patients might have conditions that make one type of surgery better suited for them than the other.
Also, consider your pain tolerance and how long you can afford to take for recovery. Your personal preferences should also be factored significantly.
Final Decision
The best way to choose between traditional and robotic-assisted surgery is to talk with your surgeon. They will give you expert advice based on your specific needs and medical condition.
By discussing all these factors, you can make the best decision for your health and recovery.
Reliable Robotic Knee Replacement in Northeast Tennessee and Southwest Virginia
Do not let knee pain dictate your life’s pace. Take the first step towards reclaiming an active lifestyle by scheduling a consultation with the orthopedic experts at Watauga Orthopaedics. Our compassionate team of experts is at the forefront of orthopedic care, combining professional expertise with a caring touch.
We are dedicated to helping you regain the life you love. We diagnose, treat, and prevent a wide range of musculoskeletal issues, including shoulder, elbow, spine, hip, and knee conditions.
If you need further assistance or wish to schedule a consultation, contact us at (423) 282-9011 or fill out our appointment request form.
We look forward to serving you!
