DR. ADITYA R. BOTHRA

Robotic hip replacement involves using a robotic arm to assist the surgeon in performing the surgery.

The robotic system allows for greater precision in:

• Planning the surgery: The robot helps create a 3D model of the patient’s hip, taking into account their anatomy.
• Positioning the implant: The robotic arm helps place the artificial hip joint with extreme accuracy, improving the alignment and fitting of the prosthetic.

There are several robotic systems currently used in hip replacement surgery:

1. MAKO Robotic-Arm Assisted Surgery:
• One of the most popular robotic systems used in joint replacement surgeries.
• Provides real-time feedback to the surgeon, ensuring precise implant placement.
• Uses pre-operative CT scans to create a 3D model of the hip joint for the surgery.
• Surgeons can make adjustments in real-time to optimize implant position.
2. NAVIO Surgical System:
• Another widely used robotic system for hip replacement.
• Uses computer-assisted navigation to guide the surgeon during the procedure.
• Offers real-time visual feedback to ensure the precise placement of the implant.
3. Robodoc:
• A less common robotic system but also used in some hip replacement surgeries.
• Typically used for femoral component placement, assisting in drilling and cutting bones accurately.

1. Improved Accuracy
• Precise Implant Placement: The robotic system allows the surgeon to place the hip implant with greater accuracy, particularly in terms of alignment and positioning. Proper alignment is crucial for the longevity and function of the artificial joint.
• Personalized Approach: The 3D modeling of the hip joint allows the surgeon to tailor the procedure to the individual’s specific anatomy, potentially leading to a more effective outcome.
2. Minimized Invasive Surgery
• Smaller Incisions: Robotic surgery is minimally invasive, meaning the surgeon can make smaller incisions. This results in less trauma to the surrounding muscles and tissues, reducing the risk of complications.
• Faster Recovery: Patients may experience a shorter recovery time compared to traditional open surgery, as smaller incisions and less muscle disruption lead to less post-operative pain.
3. Reduced Risk of Complications
• Lower Risk of Dislocation: Accurate positioning of the implant reduces the likelihood of hip dislocation post-surgery.
• Better Alignment: More precise alignment reduces the chance of implant wear and loosening over time.
• Less Blood Loss: Robotic surgeries often result in less blood loss due to smaller incisions and more controlled procedures.
4. Quicker Recovery and Return to Function
• Faster Rehabilitation: Since the surgery is less invasive and involves more precise placement, patients typically experience faster rehabilitation and return to normal activities.
• Less Post-Operative Pain: Many patients report less pain following robotic hip replacement surgery due to the minimally invasive nature of the procedure.
5. Long-Term Outcomes
• Improved Prosthetic Longevity: Proper alignment and placement may help reduce wear and tear on the prosthetic joint, potentially extending the life of the hip implant.

1. Step 1: Pre-Operative Planning
• Imaging and 3D Modeling: The surgeon uses CT scans or X-rays to obtain detailed images of the hip joint. These are used to create a 3D model of the patient’s hip, which will guide the surgery.
• Customization: The surgeon will plan the best approach for implanting the artificial joint based on the patient’s anatomy.
2. Step 2: Surgery
• Anesthesia: The procedure is typically performed under general anesthesia, though spinal anesthesia (epidural) may also be used.
• Incision: The surgeon makes a small incision in the hip area to access the joint.
• Robot-Assisted Guidance: The surgeon uses the robotic system to assist with bone preparation, implant placement, and alignment. The robot offers real-time guidance to ensure precision during the procedure.
• Implant Placement: The surgeon places the artificial hip joint (prosthesis) into the prepared socket of the pelvis. This is where the robotic system helps ensure the correct alignment.
3. Step 3: Post-Operative Care
• Recovery Room: After surgery, patients are moved to the recovery room to monitor for any immediate complications.
• Physical Therapy: After the surgery, patients typically begin physical therapy to regain mobility, strength, and function in the hip joint. The rehabilitation timeline depends on the patient's age, health, and progress.
• Follow-Up: Several follow-up visits are scheduled to monitor healing, assess joint function, and ensure the implant is in place.

• Initial Recovery: Patients typically stay in the hospital for 2–3 days post-surgery.
• Physical Therapy: Rehabilitation starts within the first 24 hours after surgery. Early physical therapy helps improve joint flexibility, strength, and mobility.
• Return to Activity: Most patients can resume light activities after 6–8 weeks and return to normal daily functions within 3–6 months.
• Full Recovery: Complete recovery may take up to 6 months to a year, depending on individual factors.

• Infection: As with any surgery, there is a risk of infection at the incision site or within the joint.
• Blood Clots: Blood clots can form after surgery, particularly in the legs, but medications and early movement can reduce this risk.
• Implant Issues: Although rare, there is a risk of implant failure, loosening, or dislocation, especially if the implant was not placed accurately.
• Nerve Injury: There is a small risk of nerve damage during the procedure, leading to temporary or permanent issues with movement.

Robotic hip replacement surgery offers numerous advantages, including increased accuracy, faster recovery, and a reduced risk of complications. If you are considering robotic hip replacement, choosing a skilled surgeon with experience using robotic systems is crucial for optimal outcomes