Robotic knee replacement surgery marks a significant milestone in the field of orthopaedic surgery. The advanced, AI-integrated surgery combines the expertise of conventional surgical methods with robotic precision and delivers exceptionally accurate and positive outcomes. The introduction of this technology has facilitated smooth & quick recovery, along with improved long-term movement for patients.
Let’s discuss a little more about what recovery for robotic knee replacement patients looks like.
What is Robotic Knee Replacement Surgery?
Robotic knee replacement surgery makes use of an AI-integrated planning interface and robotic arms to assist the surgeon in positioning the implants. The robotic precision is especially helpful in ensuring joint longevity and movement of the implant.
This technology also makes sure that the surgery causes minimal damage to surrounding tissue, and has reduced the surgical error rate, shortened hospital stays, minimized cuts, and reduced blood loss. Patients who opt for robotic knee replacement surgery over conventional surgical methods tend to recover faster and experience less pain.
First Week After Robotic Knee Replacement Surgery
The first 7 days after a robotic knee replacement surgery are primarily focused on wound care, pain management, and initial movement and activities for the patient. Patients typically stay in the hospital for 3-5 days, based on their pace of recovery, strength, and overall health.
Here’s what to expect during the first week:
- Pain, swelling, and inflammation will be controlled through cold therapy and medication.
- Physiotherapists help with basic movements such as standing, walking, etc.
- Nursing staff focus on wound care for infection prevention and control.
- Breathing exercises are encouraged alongside regular blood circulation checks to eliminate the risk of blood clots.
Picking the best orthopaedic doctor in Chandigarh ensures that these critical days after surgery are spent under the care of experts, using advanced surgical technologies and robotic knee replacement recovery protocols.
Week 2-4 After Robotic Knee Replacement Surgery
Once the patient has been discharged from the hospital, the focus pivots to knee replacement recovery at home. This recovery stage marks a vital period as it lays down the foundation for further recovery.
Here’s what to expect during this time:
- Aids like a walker/a cane might be required.
- While swelling and bruising will reduce, there may be some discomfort.
- Daily-life activities such as sitting with knees bent, standing, and walking can be resumed with due caution or as advised by the doctor.
- Physiotherapy and gentle physical movement should be followed to regain mobility.
- Some patients might experience difficulty adjusting to the new normal. Emotional adjustment post-knee replacement surgery is totally fine; feeling anxious or frustrated during this period is alright.
Week 5-8 After Robotic Knee Replacement Surgery
By the fifth week, there is a substantial improvement in mobility, strength, and overall health. Here’s what you can expect during this time:
- Patients notice a reduced requirement for walking aids; many start walking/moving more independently.
- Balance and overall motor coordination improve.
- Patients typically resume light household activities such as cooking, dusting, folding laundry, etc, to regain a sense of normalcy.
- Many patients even start driving, depending on their doctor’s advice and strength.
- Physiotherapy will continue to improve muscle strength and flexibility.
Staying in touch with your knee replacement doctor will ensure your progress is being monitored and that your rehabilitation routine receives necessary adjustments.
Week 9-12 After Robotic Knee Replacement Surgery
This is a pretty advanced stage of robotic knee replacement recovery. During this period, patients typically start to regain most of their strength and confidence. The knee joint feels stable.
This period typically involves:
- Long walks, without any support.
- Climbing stairs with reduced difficulty and increased ease of movement.
- Strength training exercises are employed by the physiotherapist to rebuild the muscles around the joint.
- Low-impact recreational activities such as swimming, yoga, or cycling can be resumed.
- Better posture and balance ensure there’s less strain on the new joint.
3 Months After Robotic Knee Replacement Surgery
After almost 2 months, most patients report great adjustment with their new joint and are ready for daily tasks with renewed confidence. Continued care and lifestyle modifications are crucial to ensure enduring success in life after robotic knee replacement surgery.
Here are some things to keep in mind 3 months post-robotic knee replacement surgery:
- Complete return to daily activities such as walking, jogging, shopping, and travelling.
- Hobbies such as gardening, golfing, or dancing, etc, may be resumed after your doctor’s approval.
- Home exercises must be consistent to retain muscle flexibility and tone.
- Maintaining a healthy weight is essential to avoid excess strain on the replaced joint.
- Regular follow-ups with your doctor are necessary to make sure the implant is functioning properly.
Robotic knee replacement recovery is a steady journey where patients get better every day. There is a stark difference between robotic knee replacement recovery and recovery after conventional knee replacement. While patients who undergo conventional surgery take around 6 months to fully recover, robotic surgery patients regain mobility and strength in around 3 months.