What is it about?

Robotic-assisted surgery is new technology that can assist surgeons in improving precision and alignment of knee replacements. However, new technology is associated with learning curves. In this study we report that the learning curve of robotic-assisted total knee replacement is short (16 cases on average), and comes with a 12 minute increase in operative time during learning, however no adverse effects on patient outcomes were detected at two-year follow-up.

Featured Image

Why is it important?

There is increased frequency in the introduction of robotic-assistance for surgery globally. The findings from this study is informative for both surgeons and patients in terms of the expectations of surgical and post-surgery outcomes from the introduction of such systems.

Perspectives

Personally I am pleased to report these findings on implementation of robotic-assisted surgery as one of the main questions that knee replacement patients have in terms of new technology is with associated risk. This study clearly defines patient outcomes with introduction of robotic-assisted surgery, and so will be useful in informing patient expecations.

Mei Lin Tay
University of Auckland

Read the Original

This page is a summary of: Robotic‐arm assisted total knee arthroplasty has a learning curve of 16 cases and increased operative time of 12 min, ANZ Journal of Surgery, August 2022, Wiley,
DOI: 10.1111/ans.17975.
You can read the full text:

Read

Contributors

The following have contributed to this page