Before surgery, a CT scan creates a 3D model of the knee. In theatre, the surgeon registers the anatomy using tracking markers. The robotic system creates a personalised surgical plan. The surgeon performs the bone cuts using a robotic arm that provides haptic (tactile) boundaries, ensuring cuts are made exactly as planned. The implant is positioned with sub-millimetre accuracy. The remainder of the operation — soft tissue balancing, closure — is performed conventionally. The operation takes a similar time to conventional knee replacement or slightly longer.
Robotic assistance is used to improve implant alignment and positioning accuracy, achieve more precise ligament balancing, potentially improve early functional outcomes and patient satisfaction, and reduce outliers in implant positioning. It is particularly beneficial for partial knee replacement where positioning accuracy is critical.
All the same non-operative options as for conventional knee replacement: physiotherapy, weight management, injections, bracing. Conventional (non-robotic) knee replacement remains an excellent option with well-established long-term outcomes.
Pre-operative CT scan for surgical planning (in addition to standard pre-assessment). The CT adds a small radiation dose equivalent to a few days of natural background radiation.
More accurate implant positioning with fewer outliers. Early studies suggest potential improvements in early pain scores and functional recovery compared to conventional surgery. Long-term outcomes are expected to be at least equivalent to conventional knee replacement.
Same risks as conventional knee replacementExpected
All standard risks of knee replacement apply — infection, blood clots, stiffness, nerve injury, ongoing pain.
CT scan radiationExpected
A small additional radiation dose from the pre-operative CT.
Longer operating timeCommon
May be slightly longer than conventional surgery, particularly early in a surgeon's learning curve.
Pin site fractureRare
The tracking pins placed in bone could theoretically cause a fracture. Very rare.
Technical failureRare
The robotic system may malfunction, requiring conversion to conventional technique.
All standard knee replacement risksSee standard risks
Infection (approximately 1%), blood clots, stiffness, component loosening, periprosthetic fracture.
General or spinal anaesthesia — the same as conventional knee replacement.
Recovery is the same as conventional knee replacement. Hospital stay one to three days. Physiotherapy from day one. Driving at six weeks. Full recovery six to twelve months. Some studies suggest slightly faster early recovery with robotic assistance.
Same as conventional knee replacement: reviews at two weeks, six weeks, three months, and one year.
Does the robot do the surgery?
No. The surgeon performs the entire operation. The robotic arm provides precision guidance and haptic boundaries to ensure bone cuts are made exactly as planned. The surgeon remains in control throughout.
Is robotic surgery better than conventional?
Robotic assistance improves implant positioning accuracy. Early results are promising for improved function and satisfaction. Long-term data is still emerging but is expected to be at least as good as conventional surgery.
Does robotic surgery cost more?
There is additional cost from the robotic system and pre-operative CT. This may or may not be passed on to the patient depending on the healthcare setting.