Preparing for Robotic knee Surgery: What Patients Need to Know

Preparing for Robotic knee Surgery: What Patients Need to Know

Introduction

Preparing for orthopaedic robotic surgery can be both exciting and overwhelming for most patients. Robotic-assisted knee or hip replacement surgery represents an advanced technology that has revolutionised the field of orthopaedic surgery. Robotic orthopaedic surgery enables enhanced precision during the procedure, leading to improved patient outcomes with minimal intervention and incision. However, patients often have queries about the procedure and the preparations required, spanning from the initial consultation to preoperative evaluation and lifestyle modifications. Understanding what to expect can empower patients to undergo robotic orthopaedic surgery with confidence.

Understanding Robotic Orthopaedic Surgery

Advancements in surgical medical sciences have made minimally invasive orthopaedic surgeries possible. Robotic-assisted orthopaedic surgery provides unprecedented precision and control to surgeons, enabling them to perform surgeries with enhanced accuracy. Robotic-assisted orthopaedic surgery utilises robotic arms controlled by surgeons, resulting in increased precision to minimise tissue damage and scarring while ensuring optimal implant alignment and positioning.

Robotic-assisted orthopaedic surgery helps surgeons achieve enhanced precision, offering notable advantages to patients, such as shorter recovery times and hospital stays, ultimately contributing to optimal recovery.

Consultation and Preoperative Assessment

Consultations with orthopaedic consultants and surgeons may determine the necessity of orthopaedic robotic surgery for the hip or knee. Surgeons assess whether a patient is suitable for robotic surgery. A computed tomography (CT) scan aids in evaluating the necessity and suitability of a patient for robotic surgery, as preoperative assessment is crucial for the success of robotic orthopaedic surgery. In addition to a CT scan, other forms of assessment may be required to determine a patient’s suitability for the surgery.

CT Scan

A CT scan is necessary within 2 to 6 weeks before the scheduled surgery. This scan helps surgeons plan a surgery tailored specifically for each patient, ensuring the best possible outcome.

Blood Tests

A non-fasting blood test may be performed depending on the individual health status of the patient, past medical history, and medications taken by the patient.

Preoperative Assessment

Depending on the individual needs of the patients, the surgical team may offer a comprehensive range of preoperative evaluation services. Preoperative assessment may help identify any areas that may need focus during rehabilitation and recovery. If the patient has any cardiac ailments or other comorbidities, such as high blood pressure or diabetes that may need special management or may influence the outcome of the surgery, these must be communicated to the orthopaedic doctor. Any medications taken by the patient to manage health conditions may need to be reviewed by the doctors, and the dosage may need to be changed if necessary.

Physiotherapy

Orthopaedic specialists may recommend a consultation with a physiotherapy expert. This may be necessary for patients to understand the type and importance of exercises that may be required before the surgery. This may help ensure that the muscles are in the best condition and shape before the surgery for optimal recovery. The physical therapy team at Apollo Hospitals, Karnataka, works in collaboration with our team of orthopaedic surgeons to ensure that patients receive a personalised exercise program for optimal recovery and the success of the surgery.

Mental Preparation

Apart from ensuring optimal physical health, it is also important to ensure mental preparation for the surgery. This may involve addressing the psychological aspect and understanding and utilising coping mechanisms. Primary care doctors or orthopaedic specialists may recommend counselling sessions with psychiatrists to help manage anxiety and relieve fear and worry by engaging in relaxation techniques like meditation and controlled breathing. Seeking support from family and close friends is also an important aspect of preparing for the surgery.

Preparing for the Procedure

Before robotic orthopaedic surgery, doctors may recommend certain lifestyle modifications to ensure the optimal success of the surgery. The general instructions may be as follows:

• Ensure dental procedures are completed at least 6 weeks before the surgery to reduce the potential risk of postoperative infections.
• Blood-thinning medications, anti-inflammatory medications, or aspirin may need to be stopped 1-2 weeks before the surgery. Other medications may also need adjustment before the surgery.
• Consume a well-balanced diet comprising essential nutrients, especially iron and vitamins.
• It is recommended to quit smoking before the surgery to reduce the chances of postoperative pulmonary complications.
• The doctor may also recommend losing weight to reduce pressure on the new implant. However, it is not recommended to change the diet or resort to crash dieting methods.
• Plan what to bring to the hospital beforehand, including comfortable clothes and toiletries.

Supportive Home Environment

While it may not seem important at first, it can be helpful to prepare a proper environment at home to ensure a smooth and complication-free recovery. This involves arranging assistive devices like a crutch and seeking assistance from caregivers. Setting up a home environment also includes removing tripping hazards and ensuring an accessible living space.

Postoperative Care and Rehabilitation

Postoperative care, physical therapy, and rehabilitation play a crucial role in the recovery process following robotic orthopaedic surgery. The general instructions provided by orthopaedic surgeons after robotic surgery before discharge may include the following:

• Activity:

It is recommended not to lift heavy weights unless otherwise instructed by the orthopaedic surgeon. Patients may be allowed to walk limited distances indoors without any walking aid and then progress to outdoor walking. While this can aid in recovery, it is important to remember that every patient has their own pace of recovery. High-impact activities such as jumping, running, skiing, etc., may need to be avoided for at least 3 months post-surgery.

• Driving:

Patients need transportation to and from the hospital. After surgery, surgeons may recommend waiting for at least 2 weeks before resuming driving. It is advised not to resume driving while still on medications.

• Movements:

Avoid kneeling and twisting during the first few months after surgery. It would also be beneficial for patients to ensure that the operated-upon area is well taken care of and cleaned using cleansing agents recommended by the doctor. Keeping that area elevated and using ice as directed may be beneficial, helping to decrease swelling and pain.

• Pain Management:

Taking pain medicines as directed is necessary. It is important to take pain medications before the pain becomes severe.

• Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation:

Physical therapy ensures the management of pain while restoring strength, mobility, flexibility, and range of motion. Rehabilitation focuses on regaining function and increasing the level of activity. Such a combined approach facilitates successful recovery and enhances overall patient outcomes.

Robotic orthopaedic surgery preparation and recovery require a comprehensive approach with careful consideration and understanding of the surgical process and recovery to ensure optimal preparation as well as recovery. At Apollo Hospitals, Karnataka, also known as the best Orthopaedic Hospital in Bangalore, orthopaedic surgeons and consultants ensure the all-round treatment of a wide range of orthopaedic problems that require surgical intervention. Our team of orthopaedic surgeons is highly skilled at robotic orthopaedic surgery, ensuring personalised treatment and recovery plans. For more information or a one-on-one consultation, contact us directly for customised treatment with the best orthopaedic surgeons at Apollo Hospitals.