The knee is the largest and one of the most complex joints in the body and is prone to both injury and wear and tear due to the demands we put on it. Knee replacement surgery, also known as partial or total knee arthroplasty, can be a life-changing procedure for patients that wish to restore mobility and ease the pain and discomfort caused by knee arthritis.
Robotic-assisted technology is an exciting and innovative advance in the field of orthopaedic surgery and Mr Jonathan Webb is one of the first knee surgeons in London and Bristol offering this technology to his patients.
During a total knee replacement procedure, the damaged joint is replaced with an artificial implant. Composed of metal alloys and plastic, the implant mimics the movement and function of a healthy knee joint. In a partial knee replacement, only the diseased areas of the joint are replaced, preserving as much of the healthy bone and tissue as possible.
What does Robotic Assisted Knee Replacement Surgery entail?
This technology does not replace the orthopaedic surgeon, but helps to deliver more precise, patient-specific surgical outcomes. The Mako software is used by Mr Webb to pre-plan your procedure and then, during the operation, he guides the Mako robotic arm to remove any diseased bone and cartilage before he inserts the knee implant.
First, a CT scan is taken of the knee joint in advance of your operation. This generates a 3D virtual model of your knee joint that is loaded into the Mako software. During the procedure itself, the Mako system provides a pre-defined area for the surgeon to operate in although Mr Webb can make any adjustments as needed during surgery.
What are the benefits of Robotic Assisted Knee Replacement Surgery?
Patients benefit from a more personalised surgical procedure, with each procedure planned exactly to your specific anatomy and degree of damage to the knee joint. In partial knee replacement, the X-rays and CT scans can determine exactly the damaged areas of the joint, ensuring optimal preservation of healthy bone and tissue.
The level of accuracy when placing the implant can mean a more natural feeling to the knee joint, reduced risk of injury to surrounding tissue and, potentially, better long-term function.
For more information on Robotic Assisted Knee Surgery or to book a consultation, call us on 0203 195 2443 to arrange a consultation at our London clinic or 08450 60 44 99 to book an appointment at our Bristol knee clinic.