Top 5 Myths About Robotic Joint Replacement Surgery Debunked

Robotic joint replacement surgery is one of the best inventions in orthopedic care, which is not only cost-effective but also safe for treating end-stage osteoarthritis. However, despite various benefits, patient satisfaction remains the big issue, ranging between 82% and 89%. This is largely due to the reason that patients are hesitant because of myths and misinformation around this technique. 

To remove this hesitancy and improve the belief on robotic knee replacement surgery, we will debunk the top five myths in this article. We will also discuss the benefits of this technique and how it is revolutionizing joint care.

What is Robotic Joint Replacement Surgery?

Robotic joint replacement surgery uses advanced robotic technology for the joint replacement process. This medical procedure combines the surgeon’s capabilities and use of robotic equipment, to perform the surgery with precision and give accurate results.

In this technique, a surgeon uses a robotic device to perform the surgery for placing the knee implant accurately. Robotic procedure helps in ruling out the 3D imaging and gives a detailed view of the affected area of the patient’s joint. The image is then used to create a surgical plan, and a robotic arm is used during the surgery to remove damaged bones and cartilage while replacing them precisely with an artificial implant. 

Misconception About Robotic Joint Replacement Surgery

The successful clinical outcomes, while increasing the quality of life post-surgery, have made robotic surgery very popular. However, despite these benefits, misconceptions are still lingering around this technique, and below we will break down those myths to set the record straight.

Myth 1: The Robots Replace the Surgeon 

Fact: The biggest myth about robotic joint replacement surgery is that people think surgeries are entirely controlled by machines. This is not true, the reality is the robotic system is an advanced surgical equipment that helps surgeons to enhance accuracy and outcome. During the procedure, all the movements, incisions, and adjustments are guided by the surgeons, while robots allow for precision and reduce human error. In no way can it replace surgeons and their expertise because robots cannot make independent decisions. 

Myth 2: Robotic Surgery is Not Safe

Fact: It is often thought that anything involving advanced machinery is not safe, especially if it is a part of the surgery process. While robotic surgery is more secure than other traditional methods. The robotic surgery is designed in a detailed manner, involving 3D imaging and automated planning. This procedure minimizes human error and complication rates and helps with better outcomes. Moreover, the procedure is thoroughly tested and approved by medical regulatory bodies, and surgeons are properly trained before the surgery, which further makes the technique safer.

Myth 3: This Technique is New and Can Not Be Trusted

Fact: Many people believe that robotic surgery is modern. However, the reality is that robotic surgery in orthopaedics has been in practice since 1983, while robotic surgeries in other specialties like cardiology and neurology have been performed since the early eighteenth century. This means robotic surgery is refined through years of clinical application and proven for consistent and positive outcomes. Worldwide, over 1.5 million robotic surgeries were performed in 2024, with an estimated growth of 15% in robot-assisted surgeries every year.

Myth 4: Robotic Surgery is Very Expensive

Fact: It is often thought that robotic surgeries are more expensive than traditional joint replacement surgeries. But that’s not the case. Initially, the overall cost may seem higher, but the total cost of surgery is quite less with reduced rehabilitation expenses. In fact, robot-assisted surgeries lead to fewer complications, require shorter hospital stays, and require fewer follow-ups, all of which lead to robotic surgery being more cost-effective than regular surgical methods. Moreover, there are various health insurance companies that cover robotic surgery’s expenses, making it a wise investment in long-term mobility.

Myth 5: The Recovery Process From Robotic Surgery Takes Time 

Fact: Some patients assume that using advanced technology means the recovery time will extend. But the opposite is true, which means the recovery time gets accelerated. Since robotic surgeries are minimally invasive and there is little to no trauma to the surrounding tissues, the recovery time is less than with traditional methods. A patient can return to their daily life and activities faster, and within a few days, they can even begin to walk due to less scarring and

Benefits of Robotic Joint Replacement Surgery

Now that you are aware of the truth behind common myths, let’s understand why robotic surgeries are becoming the preferred choice for surgeons and patients.

1. It offers Improved Accuracy and Precision

Robotic surgery uses 3D imaging for correct mapping of the damaged area of the patient’s leg before surgery. This step not only helps figure out the optimal position for placing the implant, necessary for long-term and better function of the joint.  

2. Robotic Surgeries Heal Faster

Because of less scarring and a minimally invasive technique, the recovery process is faster. Moreover, there is less loss of blood and less post-op pain, allowing the patients to become active and return to daily activities sooner than with traditional surgical methods.

3. Enhanced Safety and Consistency

Robotic surgery enhances surgical safety and reduces the chance of human error by providing real-time feedback during the procedure. This function helps surgeons to take immediate actions within predefined protocols for consistent and positive surgical outcomes. 

4. Close to Natural Results with Improved Joint Movements

The result of robotic knee replacement surgeries ensures the new joint mimics natural movements as closely as possible. There is increased comfort, and the patient can perform smooth motions like bending, walking, and working out with ease.

Final Thoughts

The advancements in medical procedures like robotic knee replacement surgery are no less than a boon. It not only helps patients to get back on their feet super fast but also the families who want to see their loved ones free from the pain. 

Sarvesh Health City in Hisar offers this groundbreaking technique with modern diagnostic and imaging facilities to provide the best orthopaedic care. Additionally, the department provides rehabilitation and physical therapy for post-op patients to improve the healing process and increase longevity.