Bengaluru: Aided by cutting edge technology, the field of surgery is experiencing a significant impact, especially robotic assisted procedures.
A recent report, titled ‘Robotics in Medical Devices – Thematic Intelligence’ reveals that every segment of the medical robotics market is set to grow over the next decade, driven by the demand for high-volume procedures. It is expected to grow at an annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8 per cent from $8.6 billion in 2022 to $15.8 billion in 2030.
Knee replacement surgeries are most common for patients suffering from osteoarthritis. It is the most prevalent in India, occurring in around 22 to 39 percent of the population. In the case of orthopaedic surgeries, use of robotic equipment has set a benchmark in knee-replacement surgeries in India. Annually, around 2.5 lakh surgeries are conducted in the country. Though it is important to understand that the need for knee replacement surgeries annually in India is 7-8 times the current numbers.
Total knee replacement is a surgical procedure that involves replacing a damaged or worn-out knee joint with an artificial joint made of metal and ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene. Through the use of robotic assisted orthopaedic surgeries, the success rate is close to 98%.
The Senior Consultant and Head Orthopedics, Sakra World Hospital, Dr. Chandrashekar P. says, “Total knee replacements can now be planned based on a patient’s unique anatomy thanks to technological and robotic advancements, and this method has proven effective in treating patients with advanced osteoarthritis. Close to 25000 knee replacement surgeries are performed in Karnataka every year and joint replacement surgeries are close to 29000 every year. Robotic tools are used during surgery to aid the doctors, but the outcome of any Total Knee Replacement (TKR) procedure ultimately depends on how well-versed and experienced the orthopaedic surgeon is. Less post-operative problems, a quicker recovery, better joint stability, and enhanced overall knee function have all been attributed to the fusion of technology and human experience.”
With high-resolution 3D Computed Tomography Scan (CT scans) of the affected joint, surgeons can now make pre-operative customised plans to suit to the patient’s anatomy allowing for a more precise bone cut and implant placement. Robotic-assisted knee surgery (RAS) provides precise placement and alignment of knee implants, reduces tissue damage and blood loss, speeds up recovery, shortens hospital stays, and potentially lowers post-operative complications.
Arthritis may not yet have a cure, but new treatment strategies are improving their ability to provide long-term comfort. Traditional techniques of treatment are effective, but introducing robots into operations allows patients to obtain more precise and accurate results. The advancement in medical technology, robotics and precision tools has greatly improved the outcomes of traditional surgery.
Therefore, one should not delay treatment and reach out to their medical profession for more details to ensure timely intervention and treatment.