Thanks to modern lifestyles, an increasing number of people are getting affected by knee issues. With this, knee replacement surgeries are also on the rise.
Until a few years ago, only manual knee replacement surgery was available. But today, we frequently hear of people getting robotic knee replacement and recommending it to others too.
In the prevailing scenario, it might seem intriguing to decide which one would be right for you – the traditional knee surgery or the modern robotic-assisted knee surgery?
In this blog, we are offering a clear comparison between the two kinds of knee surgery (also called knee arthroplasty) to make things easier for you.
Traditional Knee Replacement
In a traditional or manual knee replacement, the surgeon uses handheld instruments to remove the damaged knee joint and replace it with an artificial joint (implant). The procedure was first performed in India in 1981, and slowly rose in popularity.
It has been enabling people to get freedom from knee pain and lead an active life once again.
Advantages of traditional knee surgery:
- Decades old tried and tested technique
- Available at most hospitals
- More affordable than robotic surgery
Limitations of traditional knee surgery:
- Accuracy of implant placement largely depends on the surgeon’s experience, skill, and judgment during the operation (no prior panning is there)
- Alignment of the implant may not be very precise, which may affect the long-term performance and comfort
- Recovery may take longer (around 3 months)
- Bigger incisions, more pain, more tissue damage, and more blood loss
- Physiotherapy for a longer duration
Traditional knee surgery is right for you if you:
- Have moderate arthritis
- Have financial constraints
- Don’t mind a longer recovery
- Lack access to robotic surgery
Robotic-Assisted Knee Replacement
Robotic knee surgery uses advanced robotic systems, such as the cutting-edge CUVIS Joint Robotic System being used at Sohana Hospital, Mohali. The robot, with its sophisticated software and a robotic arm, aids the surgeon(s) in ways simply not possible with manual surgery.
To elaborate, prior to the surgery, 3D scanning of your knee is done. This allows the surgeon to precisely plan the surgery – according to your unique anatomy. They know beforehand:
- Your bone structure
- How much bone is damaged and needs to be cut
- Type, size, and placement of the implant
Your knee specialist sees the virtual surgery of your knee joint well ahead of the actual surgery, and also the simulated result. This is one element that helps ensure accuracy in the surgery.
Another element is – real-time feedback. The robotic system assists your surgeon by giving real-time feedback when the surgery is being conducted.
And finally, the robotic arm – with its tiny tools, ensures precise bone cutting and saving of healthy tissue. Also, it is important to note that the robot does not work on its own, it is operated by the surgeon.
Advantages of robotic knee surgery:
- High precision in implant placement
- Customised planning and hence tailored surgery for each patient
- Smaller incisions, less blood loss, less pain, saving of healthy tissue, and potentially faster recovery
- Better alignment which means a more natural feel of the new knee and better flexibility in movement
- Longer-lasting implant and low probability of revision surgery in future
Limitations of robotic knee surgery:
- Slightly higher cost than traditional surgery
- Available in select hospitals
Robotic knee surgery is right for you if you:
- Want the most accurate outcomes
- Have complex knee anatomy or severe deformities
- Want faster recovery and a sooner return to normal life
Quick Comparison: Traditional vs Robotic Knee Replacement
| Aspect | Traditional Knee Replacement | Robotic Knee Replacement |
| Accuracy | Depends on surgeon’s experience and skills | Highly precise due to robotic guidance |
| Size of Incisions | Bigger | Smaller |
| Pain & Blood loss | Generally more | Minimal |
| Customisation | No customisation (same standard procedure for all) | Tailored to each patient’s bone structure (with prior 3D planning) |
| Type of Instruments | Handheld instruments (bigger) | Small-sized tools of the robotic arm |
| Recovery | Generally longer | Usually faster |
| Implant Life & Durability | Often good | Longer-lasting implants |
| Availability | Most hospitals have it | Limited to a few advanced centres |
| Cost | Relatively lower | Slightly higher due to use of advanced technology |
| Success Rate | Proven track record over decades | Highly satisfied patients |
Why Choose Sohana Hospital for Knee Replacement in Chandigarh?
- Expert Surgeons – Experienced in manual as well as robotic-assisted knee procedures
- Advanced Technology – The latest CUVIS Joint Robotic System
- Personalised Treatment and Physiotherapy
Both robotic knee replacement surgery and conventional knee replacement have their own benefits. Robotic knee surgery offers unmatched accuracy and quicker recovery, while traditional knee surgery continues to be a cost-effective option.
If you are on the lookout for the most trusted knee replacement centre in Chandigarh, visit Sohana Hospital. Our knee specialist in Chandigarh will guide you towards the best treatment based on your condition, medical history, lifestyle, needs, and goals. Contact us to know more!