Computer-assisted joint replacement surgeries bring precision to hip and knee procedures. By integrating advanced technologies into the surgical process, these approaches enhance alignment and implant positioning and contribute to the long-term success of a joint replacement.
Dr. Alexander McLawhorn performs hundreds of computer-assisted and robot-assisted joint replacement surgeries each year in New York City and Stamford, Connecticut. His expertise allows patients to benefit from greater surgical accuracy and smoother recoveries while maintaining the personalized care of a skilled orthopedic specialist.
What Are Computer-Assisted And Robot-Assisted Joint Replacement Surgeries?
Computer-assisted surgery (CAS) and robot-assisted surgery are general terms representing a collection of “enabling technologies” for joint replacement surgery. Broadly, these technologies can be divided into the following categories:
- Robotic-assisted surgery
- Imageless surgical navigation
- Image-guided surgical navigation
- Sensor-guided surgery
- Patient-specific instrumentation
Why Are These Enabling Technologies Used for Joint Replacement?
During hip or knee replacement surgery, the correct positioning of the implanted joint and appropriate soft tissue tensioning and balancing are critical to the short-term and long-term success of the joint replacement.
Enabling technologies allow the surgeon to achieve more precise component positioning and joint stability during the following procedures:
Do These Technologies Perform the Surgery for the Surgeon?
The short answer is no. Dr. McLawhorn uses these technologies to improve the accuracy of surgery, but he very much remains in control of your entire procedure. None of these devices can perform a surgery without direct surgeon control.
The soft tissue dissection and closure are performed by hand. Enabling technologies are used to guide reshaping and cutting the bone and implanting the prosthetic components. Sensor-guided technologies provide precise feedback to Dr. McLawhorn about the soft tissues around the operated joint, allowing him to selectively tighten or loosen ligaments and tendons to improve joint function and stability.
What Are the Advantages of Computer-Assisted Joint Replacement Surgery?
There are many potential advantages to using computer-assisted technology during joint replacement surgery, including:
- Higher level of accuracy in positioning the new joint
- Less likely to have joint malalignment
- Improved soft tissue balance and joint stability
- Less likely limb length differences
- Potentially reduced risk for dislocation
- Possibly lower implant wear
- Potentially lower risk for failed surgery and need for revision surgery
- Improved patient satisfaction
While many advanced technologies are designated “investigational” or “experimental”, Dr. McLawhorn believes that the devices he uses represent value to his patients and their outcomes.
Many studies, including several performed by Dr. McLawhorn, have supported improved implant alignment and positioning when the implants are placed with robotics or navigation. Recent studies from HSS have suggested that robotics lowers the risk for postoperative hip dislocation after total hip replacement, and there may be less risk of manipulation under anesthesia for knee stiffness after total knee replacement.
Why Choose Dr. McLawhorn for Computer-Assisted Surgery
Dr. McLawhorn is a nationally recognized orthopedic surgeon specializing in hip and knee replacement. He performs over 600 joint replacement procedures annually, including more than 400 robot-assisted direct anterior approach total hip replacements — among the highest volumes in the nation. Patients trust his expertise in complex cases, as well as his leadership in developing and refining modern surgical techniques that improve long-term results.
As the Director of Research and Innovation for the Adult Reconstruction and Joint Replacement Service at Hospital for Special Surgery, Dr. McLawhorn plays a key role in advancing orthopedic science. His clinical research has focused on increasing surgical precision, reducing complications, and improving patient satisfaction through technology.
Supported by his highly experienced team, he offers a seamless surgical experience that integrates advanced robotics, computer navigation, and patient-specific planning to deliver exceptional care.
FAQ
Who Is the Ideal Candidate for Computer-Assisted Hip Surgery?
The candidate requirements for computer-assisted hip surgery are the same as traditional surgery. If you have recurring hip pain that has started to impact your daily life, you are eligible for computer-assisted hip surgery. There are also specific conditions that may require computer-assisted hip surgery to be effectively treated.
Below is a list of the conditions that can be treated with computer-assisted hip surgery:
- There is a tumor located within the hip joint.
- You are suffering from osteoarthritis.
- Your hip has rheumatoid arthritis.
- You had an injury, such as a hip fracture.
- Your hip has osteonecrosis, a condition involving reduced or permanent loss of blood supply to the bone.
Dr. Alexander McLawhorn will assess your needs and current medical conditions during your consultation with him. From there, he will determine the best approach to your hip-related ailments.
What Are the Benefits of Computer-Assisted Hip Surgery?
Although the operation is no different from traditional hip surgery, computer-assisted hip surgery does come with extra benefits for both you and the surgeon. This is because the computer guides the surgeon through the operation by providing clear images of the replacement components and where they are supposed to go.
It allows the surgeon to be more accurate, which can significantly reduce the risk of complications and failure.
Here is a list of other benefits that you can enjoy with computer-assisted hip surgery:
- You have a reduced chance of infection.
- You may have less scarring.
- You can recover a lot faster.
- Hip implants can have a longer life expectancy.
- Blood loss can be reduced.
Bear in mind that you may not experience all of these benefits, such as the reduced scarring.
Is the Recovery Different From Traditional Hip Surgery?
The recovery process for computer-assisted hip surgery is nearly identical to the traditional method. In most cases of traditional hip surgery, patients can usually start walking on their own after two to eight weeks. Those who get computer-assisted hip surgery can see a full recovery within two to six weeks.
How long it ultimately takes, however, does depend on your age and the current condition of your health.
Are There Any Additional Risks Associated With Computer-Assisted or Robotic-Assisted Surgery?
The risks of computer-assisted or robotic-assisted surgery are similar to traditional joint replacement. These technologies do not increase the risk of complications such as infection, blood clots, or implant failure. In fact, because they enhance precision and control, they may help reduce certain risks related to implant alignment and soft tissue balance.
Does Computer-Assisted Surgery Require a Longer Operation Time Than Traditional Methods?
Computer-assisted joint replacement can take slightly longer due to the setup and calibration of the technology. However, this extra time is minimal and typically has no impact on the safety or outcome of the surgery. The increased accuracy gained during the procedure often outweighs the few additional minutes required.
Is Computer-Assisted Surgery Covered by Insurance?
Most insurance plans, including Medicare, cover computer-assisted and robotic-assisted joint replacement surgery when medically necessary. The technology is considered part of the overall surgical process, not an added service. Patients can confirm specific coverage details with their insurance provider before scheduling surgery.
Does Computer-Assisted Surgery Affect How Long My Joint Implant Will Last?
Precise implant positioning is one of the most important factors in determining how long a joint replacement lasts. By improving accuracy and alignment, computer-assisted surgery may help extend the lifespan of an implant and reduce the need for revision surgery in the future.
How Does Computer-Assisted Surgery Reduce the Risk of Leg Length Discrepancy?
One of the key benefits of computer-assisted joint replacement is its ability to measure and balance leg length more accurately during surgery. The technology provides real-time data that helps the surgeon adjust implant placement and soft tissue tension, reducing the risk of leg length differences after hip replacement.
Schedule Your Consultation
Patients experiencing chronic hip or knee pain may benefit from computer-assisted joint replacement surgery under Dr. McLawhorn’s care. His approach combines advanced technology with personalized treatment planning to help restore mobility and quality of life.
To schedule your consultation, call 212-606-1065 for the New York office or 203-705-2113 for the Stamford location.
