What is a Robotic-assisted Hip Replacement
Hip replacement is a surgical procedure in which diseased parts of the hip joint are removed and replaced with artificial new parts - a metal cup to replace the hip socket and a metal femoral stem to connect the hip to the leg. For patients deemed suitable candidates for robotic-assisted hip replacement, SOS orthopedic surgeons use a computed tomography (CT) scan of the damaged hip to construct a three-dimensional model of the surgical area.
During surgery, the surgical robot interprets the information provided by the CT scan and guides the surgeon in preparing the implant point and positioning the hip implant. The primary advantages of the robotic-assisted procedure are accuracy and precision. Accurate alignment and positioning of hip implants are critical factors in hip replacement procedures. The surgical robot provides a stable environment for hip replacement and clear, accurate information about the damaged hip that the surgeon can use for optimum implantation.
Additionally, the surgical robot's software maps out a detailed "envelope" in which the surgeon works, and will not allow for any movement outside of that envelope, minimizing the potential for damaging surrounding tissue.
Robotic-Assisted Total Hip Replacement is performed using the MAKOplastyTM Robotic Arm at Upstate University Hospital Community Campus.
Benefits of Robotic-assisted Hip Replacement
The precision of robotic-assisted surgery allows for:
- More accurate implant positioning, which can result in a more natural feeling after surgery
- Improved safety and reduced risk of injury to adjacent tissues
- Small incisions
- The potential for better long-term function