Understanding Knee Arthritis and Robotic Joint Replacement Surgery

What is Knee Arthritis?

Knee arthritis refers to the pain and degeneration occurring in the knee joint. Dr. Satish Kale explains that a joint typically comprises two or three bones. To prevent these bones from rubbing against each other, the ends are covered with a protective layer known as cartilage. Between the bones, there is also a cushion-like structure called the meniscus. Over time, due to regular movement and wear, this protective cartilage and meniscus can get damaged.

Causes of Cartilage and Meniscus Damage

Damage to these protective layers can happen due to various reasons such as sports injuries, accidents like falling from a bike or staircase, and more. Over the years, this damage progresses. The cartilage and meniscus wear off completely, causing the bones to rub against each other directly. This leads to joint pain and is referred to as knee arthritis.

Progression of Knee Arthritis

In knee arthritis, the bones in the joint—especially where more weight is concentrated—begin to grind against one another. Most commonly, this occurs on the inner side of the knee. As degeneration increases, the shape of the joint changes, leading to bending of the leg and visible deformities. This results in pain and restricted movement, signaling the onset of knee arthritis.

Conventional Treatment Approaches

Dr. Kale shares that earlier, conventional total knee replacement surgeries were performed to address knee arthritis. In this method, damaged cartilage and meniscus were replaced with artificial components. However, the procedure involved more bone cutting, more bleeding, and a higher recovery time.

The Advancement: Robotic Joint Replacement

With advancements in medical technology, robotic-assisted joint replacement surgery is now possible. At Lokmanya Hospital, Pune, Dr. Kale has been using robotic instrumentation since 2016. This technology allows for more precise, neat, and minimal removal of the damaged portion of the joint.

Benefits of Robotic Surgery

Robotic joint replacement has multiple benefits. It ensures exact implant placement, avoids touching healthy bone and ligaments, and significantly reduces pain and bleeding. Patients recover faster and require shorter hospital stays. Dr. Kale emphasizes that robotic surgery is certainly superior to the traditional method.

Quality of Life After Surgery

Knee arthritis, which once restricted patients from walking properly, attending social functions, or performing daily tasks, is now completely treatable. Robotic surgery allows for near-normal joint restoration, improving the overall quality of life. Patients no longer need to limp or suffer from pain. With modern technology and skilled surgeons, they can lead a fully functional life again.

FAQs

1.What is knee arthritis?
It is a condition where the protective cartilage and meniscus in the knee joint wear down, causing pain and stiffness.
2. What causes damage to cartilage and meniscus?
Sports injuries, falls, and age-related wear and tear are common causes.
3. How does knee arthritis affect mobility?
It leads to joint pain, leg deformity, difficulty in walking, and restriction in daily activities.
4. What is conventional knee replacement surgery?
It involves replacing damaged parts of the knee with artificial components using standard instruments.
5. How is robotic joint replacement different?
Robotic surgery is more precise, causes less bleeding, and preserves healthy bone and tissue.
6. Is robotic surgery more beneficial than traditional methods?
Yes, it offers faster recovery, reduced hospital stays, and better long-term outcomes.
7. Can patients return to normal life after robotic knee replacement?
Absolutely. With restored joint function, patients can resume daily activities and enjoy an improved quality of life.