World Arthritis Day 2024: Comparing Traditional and Robotic-Assisted Joint Surgeries

Dealing with arthritis can feel like a constant battle—every step can be a reminder of the joint pain that limits your daily activities. For many, the question is not whether to seek treatment but rather which type of surgery will provide the best relief and quickest recovery. As we approach World Arthritis Day 2024, it is a good time to explore the options available for joint replacement. Should you opt for the trusted methods of traditional joint surgeries, or is robotic-assisted surgery, known for its precision and quicker recovery, the right choice for you? Let’s break down these two approaches.

What is Arthritis?

Arthritis is a general term for conditions that cause inflammation in the joints, resulting in pain, stiffness, and swelling. The most common kinds of arthritis include osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Osteoarthritis, the most prevalent form, occurs due to the wear and tear of cartilage that cushions the ends of bones, while rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder where the immune system attacks the joints. Over time, arthritis can cause joint damage and deformities, making daily activities challenging.

Traditional Joint Surgeries

Traditional joint surgeries, such as knee and hip replacements, have been the gold standard for managing severe arthritis when other treatments like medications and physical therapy fail to provide relief.
Traditional joint surgeries have been in practice for decades and involve removing the damaged joint & replacing it with an artificial implant made of metal, plastic, or ceramic. These surgeries aim to reduce pain, improve joint function, and enhance the patient's overall quality of life.

Procedure of Traditional Joint Surgery

The procedure for a traditional knee or hip replacement surgery involves making a sizable incision over the affected joint. Then, the surgeon removes the damaged bone and cartilage, reshapes the joint area, and fixes the artificial implant using bone cement or a specialised coating that promotes the bone to grow onto it.

Benefits of Traditional Joint Surgeries

• Proven Track Record: Traditional joint surgeries have a long history of success, with many patients experiencing significant pain relief and improved mobility.
• Availability: These surgeries are widely available across hospitals and clinics in India, making them accessible to a large number of patients.
• Cost-Effective: Traditional joint surgeries are generally more affordable than newer techniques, making them a viable option for many patients.

Introduction to Robotic-Assisted Joint Surgeries

Robotic-assisted joint surgeries, such as robotic knee replacement surgery, represent a significant advancement in surgical technology. These surgeries combine the expertise of a skilled surgeon with the precision and accuracy provided by robotic technology.
Robotic surgery in India has become increasingly popular because of its minimally invasive nature and potential for improved outcomes. In robotic-assisted joint surgeries, surgeons use a robotic arm or guided system to perform the procedure with greater precision, minimising human error.

Procedure of Robotic-Assisted Joint Surgery

In robotic knee surgery, for instance, a CT scan or MRI is conducted to create a 3D model of the patient's knee. This model helps the surgeon plan the surgery with precision, taking into account the unique anatomy of the patient. During the surgery, the robotic system assists the surgeon in making accurate cuts and placing the implant with high precision, ensuring optimal alignment and positioning.

Benefits of Robotic-Assisted Joint Surgeries

• Minimally Invasive: Robotic-assisted surgeries involve smaller incisions, leading to reduced tissue damage and faster recovery times.
• Enhanced Precision: The use of robotic technology allows for highly accurate implant placement, reducing the risk of complications and
• improving joint function.
• Personalised Approach: The technology allows for a customised surgical plan tailored to the patient's specific anatomy and needs.
• Reduced Pain and Faster Recovery: Patients generally experience less pain post-surgery and can return to their daily activities more quickly than with traditional methods.

Key Technologies Used in Robotic-Assisted Joint Surgery

Robotic knee replacement and other robotic-assisted surgeries use technologies like robotic arms, real-time imaging, and navigation systems to enhance surgical precision. These technologies help improve implant positioning and alignment, leading to improved outcomes.

Comparing Traditional vs. Robotic-Assisted Joint Surgeries

Who Can Benefit from Robotic-Assisted Joint Surgeries?

• Seek a minimally invasive option with reduced pain and faster recovery.
• Require a high level of precision due to complex joint anatomy.
• Are younger or more active and need optimal implant positioning for long-term durability.
• Have had previous joint surgeries and require revision surgery with a high degree of accuracy.

Who Can Benefit from Traditional Joint Surgeries?

• Those who have extensive joint damage or severe arthritis require immediate intervention.
• Those looking for a more affordable option without the need for advanced technology.
• Those who are in locations where robotic surgery is not readily available.
• Those who prefer a tried-and-tested method with a long track record of success

MISSO® by Meril

MISSO® Robotic System by Meril is an advanced orthopedic solution designed for primary knee replacements. It integrates CT scan-based preoperative planning for high precision in bone resections and implant placements. Key features include sub-millimetre precision, personalised surgical plans, real-time intra-operative metrics, and safety features like bone movement monitoring. Compatible with Freedom, Destiknee, and Opulent knee implants, MISSO® aims to improve patient outcomes with quicker recovery and improved results.

Conclusion

As World Arthritis Day 2024 brings awareness to arthritis and its impact, understanding the differences between traditional and robotic-assisted joint surgeries becomes crucial for both patients and doctors. While traditional joint surgeries remain a reliable and accessible option, robotic surgery in India is revolutionising the field with its precision, minimally invasive approach, and personalised care. Whether considering a traditional or robotic knee replacement, consulting with a healthcare professional is highly crucial to opt for the most suitable option depending on the patient's condition and preferences.

Reference Links:

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/arthritis/symptoms-causes/syc-20350772
https://www.arthritis.org/health-wellness/treatment/joint-surgery/safety-and-risks/understand-your-joint-surgery-options
https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/treatment/robotic-assisted-joint-replacement/#:~:text=Using%20robotic%20tools%20that%20have,help%20to%20preserve%20healthy%20tissue.
https://www.pennmedicine.org/for-patients-and-visitors/find-a-program-or-service/orthopaedics/knee-pain/knee-surgery/knee-replacement-surgery/robotic-knee-replacements