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Robotic Knee Replacement Specialist

Vasilios Mathews, MD

Orthopedic Surgeon located in Houston, TX

Robotic Knee Replacement Q&A

Dr. Mathews has significant experience in the use of robotics for knee replacement. He performed the first Velys Robotic Knee Replacement in Texas several years ago.

Robotic knee replacement image 1 From the patient’s viewpoint, robotic-assisted knee replacement is mostly the same as traditional knee replacement. The surgeon is still in charge and controls the robot. The computer navigation software that comes with the robot collects data about your knee by measuring anatomy, deformity, and angles. The software then maps out your knee, providing the data to the surgeon, who can then make decisions on the appropriate adjustments to size and balance your knee. Then, while the surgeon controls it, the robot can make precise bone cuts to prepare for implantation of a well-aligned and balanced knee replacement.

There are many potential benefits from using this technology for your knee replacement. Robotic-assisted technology may allow your surgeon to perform a knee replacement tailored to you, providing both precision and accuracy during your procedure.

Robotic knee replacement image 2 Although studies will likely take many years to show a significant difference over the traditional manual technique, there are some early hints that robotic-assisted technology may deliver better range of motion, less pain, and faster recovery times (especially when coupled with the minimally invasive technique that Dr. Mathews uses).

Relief from pain, along with improved mobility, strength, and coordination are the most significant benefits of revision hip replacement. Avoidance of severe bone loss of the pelvis and femur are also crucial reasons to intervene with a revision. Revision hip replacement enables many patients to return to normal activities pain-free.

Robotic knee replacement image 3 There are some patients who are not candidates for robotic surgery for a variety of reasons. And there are some patients who may benefit the most from robotics, for example those who have abnormal anatomy of the leg, making knee balance and alignment a little more challenging. Most patients are candidates for the robotic-assisted option, and if you are interested, make an appointment to see Dr. Mathews, where he will spend some time with you discussing the pros and cons of the procedure.