Knee pain can be debilitating, affecting your ability to enjoy daily activities and diminishing your quality of life. For many people struggling with severe knee arthritis or injuries, Total Knee Arthroplasty (TKA), commonly known as knee replacement surgery, has been a transformative solution. Traditional surgical techniques have effectively restored mobility and reduced pain, but recent technological advancements have enhanced these outcomes. One of the most notable innovations in this field is the ROSA Knee System, a state-of-the-art robotic surgical assistant designed to refine the precision and effectiveness of knee replacement procedures. We spoke to our expert Dr Debashish Chanda, Lead Consultant, Orthopaedics, CK Birla Hospital, Gurugram, who explained this revolutionising procedure in detail.
Understanding the ROSA Knee System
“The ROSA Knee System is a robotic surgical assistant developed to assist orthopaedic surgeons in TKA. Unlike what some might assume, the ROSA Knee does not operate autonomously. Instead, it functions as a high-tech tool that augments the surgeon’s capabilities,” said Dr Chanda.
Surgeons undergo specialised training to utilise the ROSA Knee System effectively, ensuring that they are equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary for its operation. During the procedure, the surgeon remains fully in charge, making critical decisions and overseeing every step of the surgery.
According to a 2023 study, this system assists surgeons in optimally positioning knee replacement components, ensuring precise alignment in the sagittal and coronal planes. It achieves this by making minimal bone cuts and utilising preoperative length graphs loaded into the system or intraoperative trackers.
How Does the ROSA Knee System Work?
The ROSA Knee System employs a combination of advanced technologies to achieve precise surgical outcomes. Dr Chanda shared its working mechanism as follows:
- Robotic Assistance: The system assists the surgeon by following a preoperative plan tailored to the patient’s unique anatomy. This plan is created based on detailed assessments and measurements taken by the surgeon.
- Camera and Optical Trackers: “ROSA Knee uses a sophisticated camera and optical trackers to monitor the position of the knee and leg throughout the surgery. If any movements occur, the robot can detect these shifts and adjust the surgical approach accordingly,” added Dr Chanda.
- Data Collection: The ROSA Knee System gathers real-time data about the knee joint, providing the surgeon with crucial information that helps refine the surgical plan and achieve optimal alignment of the knee implant.
Benefits of the ROSA Knee System
Here are some key benefits of using the ROSA Knee System for TKA, as listed by the expert:
- Enhanced Precision: The robotic system allows for highly accurate bone cuts and implant positioning, which are critical for the longevity and functionality of the knee implant.
- Personalised Surgery: By using patient-specific data, the ROSA Knee System ensures that the surgical plan is tailored to the unique anatomy of each patient, leading to better outcomes.
- Real-Time Adjustments: The system’s ability to detect and adjust for any movement during surgery helps in maintaining the exactness of the procedure, reducing the risk of errors.
- Improved Outcomes: The precise planning and execution combination leads to improved alignment and balance of the knee implant, resulting in reduced postoperative pain, faster recovery, and enhanced overall functionality.
How Is the ROSA Knee System Different From Others
No CT Scan Needed: Radiation-Free
"One of the most significant benefits of the ROSA Knee System is that it eliminates the need for preoperative CT scans, which involve radiation. Instead, the system uses non-invasive techniques to gather necessary information, making the procedure safer and reducing patient exposure to radiation," said Dr Chanda.
Same-Day Standing and Walking
Many patients who undergo TKA with the ROSA Knee System can stand and walk on the same day as the surgery. This early mobility can contribute to a faster and more successful recovery.
.jpg)
Rapid Recovery Time
"The advanced techniques used by the ROSA Knee System often result in a quicker recovery. Many patients find that they can resume their normal activities, including work, within approximately 15 days after the procedure," added Dr Chanda.
US FDA Approved
The ROSA Knee System has received approval from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), ensuring that it meets rigorous safety and effectiveness standards.
Premium Quality Implants
"The system employs high-quality, durable implants – (Persona knee implant from Zimmer Biomet) designed for longevity. With proper care, these implants can last 30-35 years, providing long-term relief from knee pain," said Dr Chanda.
Customised Implant Sizes
Persona Knee implants are available in different sizes, allowing for a more personalised fit based on the patient’s specific anatomical requirements.
Gender-Specific Implants
Recognising that anatomical differences exist between genders, the Persona knee implant is gender-specific. This approach ensures a better fit and more effective treatment outcomes for both men and women.
The Future of Knee Arthroplasty
Dr Chanda concluded, "The ROSA Knee System represents a significant leap forward in the field of orthopaedic surgery. By combining advanced robotics with real-time data and personalised surgical planning, this system enhances the precision of knee arthroplasty procedures, leading to improved patient outcomes and faster recoveries. The technology's ability to provide radiation-free imaging, facilitate early mobility, and offer high-quality, long-lasting implants underscores its role as a premium solution for knee replacement surgery."
[Disclaimer: This article contains information provided by an expert and is for informational purposes only. Hence, we advise you to consult your own professional if you are dealing with any health issues to avoid complications.]