Technology…AI…Robots…these are all hot subjects. And it’s no different in the world of orthopaedics. Patients often hear terms such as robotic knee surgery, Mako knee replacement, ROSA knee replacement, CORI, NAVIO or computer-assisted knee replacement and wonder: what does this actually mean?
The first thing to know is: the robot does not perform the operation by itself.
Robotic knee replacement is surgeon-led surgery. The technology supports planning, measurement and precision, while the surgeon remains in control throughout.
So really, the real question should not just be “is a robot used?” It is “how does this technology help plan my knee replacement? And who’s using it?”
Robotic knee replacement uses digital planning and robotic or navigation technology to help the surgeon prepare and position the knee implant. Usually, the chosen technology will assist with:
The process will vary system to system but the idea is the same: to support the surgeon with more detailed information and guidance.
Robotic technology is quite versatile. We see it used in different ways depending on the type of knee replacement being considered.
Some patients may need a total knee replacement (where the whole joint surface is replaced), others may be suitable for a partial knee replacement (if arthritis is limited to one area of the knee) - in both cases, robotic systems can support planning, measurement and precision.
Additionally, in selected cases, robotic systems may also support more complex revision surgery.
The right option depends on the pattern of arthritis, knee alignment, symptoms, lifestyle and what the surgeon finds during assessment.
Joint replacement surgery is complicated. There’s more to a knee replacement than just putting in a new joint; the implant needs to fit well, align correctly and allow the knee to move smoothly.
Precision can affect these key areas:
No. This is (unfortunately) a common misconception.
Robotic knee replacement does not automatically mean keyhole surgery or a much smaller incision.
The surgeon still needs enough access to remove damaged joint surfaces, prepare the bone and place the implant safely. “Robotic” refers to the planning and guidance technology, not the size of the incision.
As with all methods of a knee replacement, recovery still depends on swelling, pain control, physiotherapy, muscle strength and how well the knee regains movement after surgery.
Before surgery, imaging or mapping may be used to “create a plan”. This helps guide implant size, alignment and position.
During surgery, damaged cartilage and bone are removed. The robotic system helps guide bone preparation and may give real-time feedback on alignment, implant position or soft-tissue balance.
The artificial knee components are then placed, and the surgeon checks movement, stability and tracking before closing the wound.
Research supports the notion that robotic-assisted knee replacement can improve alignment and implant-positioning accuracy compared with conventional techniques.
A review published in EFORT Open Reviews1 describes robotic technology as a way to support surgical accuracy in total knee arthroplasty; particularly around planning, alignment and reproducibility.
A clinical review in the Journal of Clinical Orthopaedics and Trauma2 also highlights potential benefits around precision and implant placement, while noting that patient outcomes and long-term survivorship remain important areas for ongoing study.
In summary, it’s clear robotics can improve technical accuracy. However, this does not automatically guarantee less pain, faster recovery or a better long-term result for every patient.
Ultimately, the result still depends on the surgeon.
The surgeon decides whether partial or total knee replacement is needed, how the implant should be positioned, how the knee should be balanced and how recovery should be guided.
At Orthopaedic Innovation, this approach is supported by Dr Kristian Kley, a consultant hip and knee surgeon with over 7,000 joint replacements performed over 15 years across Germany and the UK, including 350 knee replacements in the last 12 months.
Technology can support the procedure, but expert judgement, implant selection, soft-tissue balancing and rehabilitation planning still drive the outcome.
At Orthopaedic Innovation, we begin with the patient, not the technology.
Always aiming to avoid surgery where possible, we first look carefully at symptoms, imaging, mobility and goals. Where appropriate, we offer advanced non-surgical options; including image-guided injections and joint-preserving treatments designed to reduce pain, improve function and delay or avoid surgery.
If knee replacement becomes the right next step, we focus on choosing the most suitable procedure for the patient. Whether that’s a partial knee replacement, total knee replacement or revision knee replacement, our treatment pathway reports:
This is a big decision and you should never be afraid to ask questions. A good consultation should explain the practical difference between the technology, the surgery and the recovery pathway.
You can query:
Robotic knee replacement can support precision, alignment and joint balancing, but it is not necessary or suitable for every patient.
Some people may do well with non-surgical treatment. Others may be better suited to partial knee replacement, total knee replacement or a conventional non-robotic approach.
If knee pain is affecting your daily life, you can book a free discovery call with one of our specialists. We can assess your knee properly, explain your treatment options and guide you towards the pathway that is most appropriate for you.
Book your free discovery call with one of our specialists
