Robotic Knee Replacement Recovery Explained

Robotic knee replacements are known to have a shorter recovery period than traditional procedures. The minimally invasive procedure also produces fewer risks than standard knee replacement techniques. However, it is still important for patients to understand the recovery process and what to expect.

Here, we will look at how long it typically takes to recover from a robotic knee replacement, alongside a few tips you can follow for a better recovery.

How long does it take to recover after a robotic knee replacement?

How long it takes you to recover from your robotic knee replacement will depend upon a variety of factors. These include your age, overall health, and whether any complications arose during the procedure. However, generally speaking it takes most patients up to four weeks to fully recover. In some cases, it may take up to six weeks.

Your surgeon will give you the best idea of what to expect from the recovery after the procedure. As it is a minimally invasive surgery, most patients are fine to leave the hospital the same day.

What kind of results can I expect?

As robotic knee replacements are more precise, they tend to produce more natural feeling results than traditional knee replacements. However, there is a small risk you may experience joint awareness. This means when walking up the stairs or kneeling, you may experience some level of numbness or stiffness in the joint. This is uncommon, but you still need to be aware of the risk.

Most patients who undergo a robotic knee replacement find that they have increased mobility and a greater reduction in pain.

What complications should I watch out for?

As well as the small risk of joint awareness, other potential complications to be aware of include:

Blood clots or blood loss
Infection
Nerve damage

Again, these risks are rare, but it is still worth learning more about them. Robotic assisted knee replacements do take a little longer to perform than a standard knee replacement. This means the risk of infection is generally higher. You can keep a lookout for signs of an infection, including redness or swelling around the incision site, alongside any fluid leakage.

To find out your risk factors for undergoing a robotic knee replacement, book a consultation with Mr Jonathon Webb today. All knee replacements are performed using the MAKO robotic technology. After undergoing a consultation, you will be informed of the type of results you can expect alongside any potential risks you may be exposed to.