Robots have been used in Australia for over 10 years to assist with cardiac, kidney and other surgeries. In a robotically-assisted operation, planning for the optimal positioning of the joint replacement components to fit the patient’s anatomy is done by specialist engineers, in collaboration with the surgeon. The robot creates a 3D representation that matches a CT scan of the patient’s body.
During the surgery the robot helps the surgeon to scale their movements and correctly place the components of the prosthesis in the body, while a 3D camera gives a view of the operative field. At the console the surgeon controls the surgical instruments and cutting tools with sensitive thumb and finger grips, while foot pedals control the 3D magnifying camera.
The
AOA National Joint Replacement Registry monitors the uses of new technology as part of its collection of data related to joint replacement surgery.
Most significant for the patient’s outcome remains that any operation is performed by a skilled orthopaedic surgeon, whatever technology may or may not be used. However, it is expected that in future, more complex cases may be particularly aided with the use of surgical robots.