Robotic knee surgery enables detailed pre-operative planning and tighter control over implant positioning and knee alignment during surgery.
Robotic-assisted surgery is an advanced technique that uses specialised robotic platforms to enhance the precision and accuracy of an orthopaedic surgeon’s movements during complex procedures. It also frees the surgeon from reliance on mechanical jigs to guide them, allowing better tailoring of surgery to your individual anatomy.
The robot assists your surgeon in advanced planning and performing your knee surgery. Your surgeon is in full control at all times, operating directly on you, with the robot serving as a highly sophisticated guidance tool rather than an autonomous operator.
The robotic system helps your surgeon create a personalised surgical plan based on your individual anatomy. To do this, it uses your imaging scans to build a detailed 3D model of your knee, which your surgeon then uses to plan your procedure — including how to position your implant.
Robotic knee surgery is not used for every knee procedure, and it is not a treatment for ligament injuries, meniscal tears or arthroscopy on their own.
Its role is specific to knee replacements (arthroplasty), where implant alignment, bone preparation and component positioning are central to the operation. It is generally considered when arthritis or joint damage has progressed to the point where replacement surgery is being discussed.
Robotic-assisted knee surgery offers several potential advantages over conventional techniques, including
Creates a personalised 3D model of your knee, allowing your surgeon to plan the procedure around your unique anatomy before making a single cut.
Studies have reported reduced postoperative swelling, less pain, decreased need for pain relief, and improved function in the early months following robotic surgery.
Robotic-assisted knee replacement consistently improves the accuracy of implant positioning.
Robotic knee replacement is associated with a shorter hospital stay, a greater likelihood of being discharged directly home, and lower readmission rates.
Robotic knee surgery is associated with less soft tissue injury and reduced blood loss during the procedure, which can contribute to a smoother recovery.
A large study found that patients who underwent robotic knee replacement were significantly less likely to experience complications such as infections, excessive blood loss, and mechanical problems with their prosthesis.
While there is evidence for some advantage to robotic knee replacement, research into long-term outcomes is ongoing. Although we do not claim robotic assisted surgery is better, surgeons at Melbourne Knee Centre prefer the enhanced planning, individualisation, and precision it offers.
Both robotic and conventional knee replacement are well-tested procedures, and your surgeon will discuss which approach is most appropriate for your individual circumstances.
From your first consultation at Melbourne Knee Centre through to rehabilitation and recovery, you are supported within a collaborative, multidisciplinary team built around the full knee journey.
Melbourne Knee Centre’s exclusive focus on knees means that robotic surgery is used within a high-volume setting where implant planning, alignment strategy and individual treatment decisions are central to every case. That depth of subspecialty experience shapes how the technology is used, including discussions on whether it is the right choice for you in the first place.