Robotic Orthopaedic Surgery

Ankle osteoarthritis is a condition that causes pain and stiffness in the ankle joint. Traditional treatments like joint fusion can limit mobility. An alternative procedure called ankle distraction arthroplasty has been gaining some traction, but how well does it hold up in the long term? 

A recent study by Greenfield et al. (2019) investigated this very question. They conducted a survival analysis of ankle distraction arthroplasty for ankle osteoarthritis. Their findings suggest that this procedure may be a viable option for some patients. 

Key takeaways from the study: 

  • Ankle distraction arthroplasty showed promising results, with an 84% survival rate at 5 years. This is better than some previously reported outcomes. 
  • The study also identified factors that can influence the success of the procedure. Avascular necrosis of the talus (bone death) was associated with a lower survival rate. Additionally, sex may play a role, with the study suggesting potential gender differences in long-term outcomes. 

What this means for patients: 

Ankle distraction arthroplasty offers a potential option for preserving joint mobility in patients with ankle osteoarthritis. This study provides valuable data for surgeons and patients to consider when making treatment decisions. 

Important to note: 

  • This was a retrospective study, meaning researchers analyzed past data. More robust research designs are needed to confirm these findings. 
  • The study involved a relatively small group of patients. Larger studies are necessary to draw more definitive conclusions. 

Overall, this research suggests that ankle distraction arthroplasty may be a valuable tool for treating ankle osteoarthritis. However, more research is needed to solidify its place as a standard treatment option. 

ReferenceGreenfield, S., Matta, K. M., McCoy, T. H., Rozbruch, S. R., & Fragomen, A. (2019). Ankle distraction arthroplasty for ankle osteoarthritis: a survival analysis. Strategies in trauma and limb reconstruction, 14(2), 65. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7376580/#:~:text=In%20a%20significantly%20larger%20series,and%2037%25%20within%205%20years

Disclaimer:

This blog is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional to discuss your individual treatment options.
 

Robotic Orthopaedic Surgery

“Give a man health and a course to steer, and he’ll never stop to trouble about whether he’s happy or not.” – George Bernard Shaw

The automation of various aspects of orthopaedic practice has enabled improvements in patient recovery. Via the utilization of robot-assisted orthopaedic surgery, surgeons have the ability to optimize the accuracy and precision of their procedures. With a higher success rate in orthopaedic procedures, patients will feel more confident as they restore their lives. 

Robotic surgical systems have the ability to enable surgeons to visualize their plan of action, then fix the bones during the procedure. Applications of robotic orthopaedic surgery include: 

1)Total hip and knee replacement

2) Reconstruction of knee ligaments 

As applications of robotic orthopaedic surgery are increased, the benefits will be gained by the patient community. With the innovation curve that often faces all technologies, it will be important for orthopaedic surgeons to factor in robotic orthopaedic surgery in their practices, so that the proof can be realized. 

How does Robotic Orthopaedic Surgery work? 

Orthopaedic surgeons will often utilize robots to optimize procedures such as joint replacement. During this process, the surgeon will cut away damaged bone, and replace it with a more structurally strong replacement made of metal alloys, high-grade plastics and polymers. 

Knee Replacement: Depending on the severity of the joint pain experienced, the severity of the paint and the extent of joint degradation may result in the orthopaedic surgeon suggesting a total joint replacement. A joint replacement can keep a patient pain free for up to ten years. This could be the best way to get rid of the pain for good. The ideal candidates for joint replacement surgery typically are those persons who are in the later stages of osteoarthritis. The surgical process is often identified as a last resort. 

Navigating the joint replacement site can be challenging, and robotics enables the best possible alignment. The robotic technology will enable the appropriate feedback loop that will enable the orthopaedic surgeon to complete the procedure.

Consult with your orthopaedic surgeon to determine if robotic orthopaedic surgery will work best for your health condition. 

Article Reference: 

  1. Mayo Clinic: Robotic Orthopaedic Surgery 

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Dr. Gordon Slater

Dr. Slater is one of the first foot and ankle surgeons in Australia to adopt minimally invasive surgical techniques. He routinely uses MIS to treat a range of conditions, including bunions.

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Dr Gordon Slater is a highly-skilled surgeon specialising in foot and ankle conditions and sports injuries. Dr Slater is one of the first foot and ankle surgeons in Australia to adopt minimally invasive surgical techniques. He routinely uses MIS to treat a range of conditions, including bunions. MIS  has many advantages including shorter operating times, reduced post-operative pain, reduced risk of infection, minimal scarring and better cosmetic outcomes.

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