Can I Trust Robotic-Assisted Surgery?

Two decades ago, the first robotic surgery system received approval from the FDA. In recent years, the number of robotic-assisted procedures has increased as technology has gotten more advanced and more specialists have opted for training. 

In 2017 alone, over 693,000 robotic-assisted procedures were performed in the United States. However, misconceptions about this new technology make many people feel uneasy about relying on a robotic-assisted procedure. 

In reality, a robotic system is merely a tool in the hands of the surgeon, because the system is not making any judgments by itself. Everything is controlled by the surgeon with a console. 

Still not convinced? Our team at Chicago Orthopaedics put together a short guide on the current data regarding the safety, satisfaction rates, and benefits of robotic-assisted surgery.

Safety and satisfaction rates

One study that looked at the overall performance and safety of robotic-assisted surgery over an eight-year period found that the technology is both safe and effective.

In an evaluation that looked at 140 patients who underwent robotic-assisted surgery, 91% of the patients said they would recommend the procedure to someone else. 

Risks associated with robotic-assisted surgery are similar to those associated with traditional surgery, but since the incisions are smaller, the recovery is quicker and less painful.

Unique benefits 

Robotic surgery allows specialists to perform procedures with better precision and a reduced risk for blood loss, infections, and a prolonged recovery.

This system can often replace traditional open procedures with a minimally invasive surgery done with smaller incisions and a camera.

An indirect benefit from using a console and robotic arms to perform a surgery is reduced surgeon fatigue. Robotic-assisted surgery allows specialists to sit down instead of lean over their patients during the procedure. 

Learn more about how robotic-assisted surgery is used in joint replacement 

At Chicago Orthopaedics, Dr. Vasili Karas uses the Mako® robotic-assisted technology to perform joint replacements on patients suffering from arthritis. This system comes with several benefits, including higher precision and reduced recovery time. 

Dr. Karas uses a CT scan of your joints to upload the information into the Mako software, and then he crafts a personalized plan based on the image of your damaged joints. 

If you suffer from pain or a lack of function in your joints and don’t respond well to medications or lifestyle changes, you may benefit from a joint replacement. 

Contact us to schedule an appointment to find out whether you’re a good candidate for robotic-assisted joint replacement.