Knee pain is one of the most common reasons older adults lose mobility and independence. For many seniors, arthritis and cartilage loss make everyday tasks like walking, climbing stairs or even sleeping painful and exhausting. Total knee replacement surgery is helping patients find relief.
In the U.S., nearly 800,000 total knee replacement surgeries are done each year, and that number is expected to rise as the population continues to age. Yet traditional surgery is often linked to long recovery times, post-operative pain and inconsistent results.
The good news? Advances in robotic-assisted knee replacement surgery are changing that. This innovative approach to orthopedic surgery offers greater precision, accuracy and a faster, more comfortable recovery for patients.
If you are considering knee replacement surgery, robotic technology-assisted procedures could be a safer, more effective solution. Here’s what you need to know.
What Is Robotic-Assisted Knee Replacement Surgery?
Robotic-assisted knee replacement surgery, also known as robotic-assisted knee arthroplasty, helps surgeons perform the procedure with greater accuracy and precision.
Using advanced technology, the surgeon first creates a 3D model of the patient’s knee. During surgery, the robot guides the surgeon’s tools to make precise cuts and position the new knee joint in a way that fits the patient’s anatomy, leading to a more balanced joint.
Robotic-assisted surgery comprises nearly 16 percent of all total knee replacements, up six-fold from just six years ago, according to the American Joint Replacement Registry’s 2024 annual report.
Common Misconceptions About Knee Replacement
Many seniors approach the idea of knee replacement with caution. But these modern advances are changing what this surgery looks like today.
Here are a few examples of common misconceptions.
- “I’m too old for surgery.”
- “The recovery is too long.”
- “It won’t feel natural.”
Advantages of Robotic Surgery for Older Adults
While seniors often have unique surgical challenges, including more severe joint damage, osteoporosis or multiple chronic conditions, robotic-assisted technology is particularly well-suited to handle these complexities.
According to recent research published in Arthroplasty Today, the peer-reviewed journal by the American Association of Hip and Knee Surgeons, robotic-assisted knee replacement surgery increased accuracy and lower rates of component malpositioning compared to traditional methods.
Other benefits include:
- Custom Alignment and Precision: By using robotic technology, the surgeon can tailor each procedure to the patient’s exact anatomy. This can potentially result in less wear and fewer complications over time
- Reduced Tissue Trauma: Less damage to surrounding muscles and ligaments, leading to faster healing and less pain after surgery
- Lower Risk of Complication: Robotic‑assisted knee replacement can lower the risk of complications such as hospital re-admission, misalignment‑related issues and the need for later revision surgery
- Faster Recovery: Many seniors are able to walk with assistance the same day or next day following robotic surgery. In addition, patients generally experience shorter hospital stays, quicker rehabilitation and less reliance on pain medications
Is Robotic Knee Surgery Safe?
Robotic knee surgery is safe, especially when performed by experienced orthopedic surgeons. Robotic systems provide a level of detail and accuracy that is difficult to achieve with manual instruments alone. As the robot is controlled by a trained surgeon, it is the surgeon’s decisions that are the ultimate factor in achieving excellent and safe results.
Some studies have shown that robotic knee replacements result in shorter hospital stays and less complications after surgery. These benefits are particularly important for seniors who may be managing multiple medical conditions, such as diabetes or heart disease.
How Long Is Recovery from Robotic Knee Replacement?
Recovery varies based on your overall health, motivation and the type of procedure (partial vs. total knee replacement). That said, robotic-assisted methods have improved early recovery.
Typical robotic knee replacement milestones:
- Day 1-2: Begin walking with support (walker or cane)
- Week 2-3: Begin outpatient physical therapy
- Week 4-6: Resume light daily activities and driving (if cleared)
- Month 3-6: Regain full strength and range of motion
Because robotic surgery reduces tissue damage and enhances precision, patients often experience less swelling, lower pain scores and faster returns to independence compared to those who undergo traditional knee surgery. Staying active and committed to your post-op rehabilitation plan is one of the biggest predictors of long-term success.
Are you considering knee replacement surgery? Stony Brook Southampton Hospital’s world-class orthopedic services focus on excellence in clinical care, diagnosis and treatment of all adult and pediatric musculoskeletal injuries and disorders. No matter the condition or injury, our team of orthopedic surgeons and physician assistants work together to provide you the care you need, with the goal of getting you back on track as soon as possible. Learn more about our services or contact us to make an appointment.
