Robotic Hip Replacement

What is Robotic Hip Replacement?

Robotic-assisted hip replacement is a technique that uses computer planning and a robotic system to assist the surgeon in performing a hip replacement with a high degree of precision. It is not a robot operating on its own — the surgeon plans and performs the operation, with the technology providing detailed information and assisting with accuracy, particularly in positioning the implants.

The robotic arm system only helps with positioning the cup (socket) and not the femur (stem).

Accurate implant positioning is an important factor in how a hip replacement functions, its stability, and how long it lasts, which is the rationale behind robotic assistance.

How it Works

Robotic systems vary, but the general principles include:

• Planning: a detailed three-dimensional model of the hip is created, often from a pre-operative scan, and used to plan implant size and position.
• Intra-operative guidance: the system provides real-time information about the position of the implants relative to the plan and the patient’s anatomy.
• Assisted execution: the robotic system assists the surgeon in preparing the bone and positioning the components accurately.

The surgeon remains in control throughout, using the technology as a tool to execute the surgical plan precisely.

Potential Benefits

The intended advantages of robotic assistance include:

• Precise positioning of the cup and stem
• Accurate, individualised surgical planning
• Assistance in restoring leg length and hip mechanics accurately
• Consistency in executing the surgical plan

Robotic assistance is a tool that supports the surgeon. Good outcomes in hip replacement depend on many factors including surgical experience, patient selection, implant choice, and rehabilitation. Not all patients require robotic assistance, and the most appropriate approach will be discussed at your consultation.

The Procedure and Recovery

From the patient’s perspective, a robotic-assisted hip replacement is similar to a conventional hip replacement in terms of the operation and the recovery that follows. The robotic technology can be used in conjunction with different surgical approaches. Surgery is performed under spinal or general anaesthesia. Recovery follows the same general path as standard hip replacement, with a structured rehabilitation programme tailored to your progress.

Risks and Complications

The risks are broadly those of hip replacement in general, including:

• Infection
• Blood clots (deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism)
• Bleeding
• Dislocation of the prosthesis
• Leg length inequality
• Fracture during surgery
• Injury to adjacent nerves or blood vessels
• Implant loosening or wear over time

All relevant risks will be discussed in detail at your consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does a robot perform the hip replacement?

No. The surgeon plans and performs the operation. The robotic system is a tool that provides detailed information and assists with accurate bone preparation and implant positioning, but the surgeon remains in control throughout.

Is robotic hip replacement better than conventional surgery?

Robotic assistance is designed to improve the precision of implant positioning. Outcomes in hip replacement depend on many factors beyond the technology, including surgical experience, patient selection, and rehabilitation. Whether robotic assistance is appropriate for you will be discussed at your consultation.

Can robotic assistance be used with any approach?

Robotic technology can be used in conjunction with different surgical approaches to the hip. The choice of both the technology and the approach depends on your individual circumstances.

Medical Disclaimer
The information on this page is intended as general patient education and does not constitute medical advice. Every patient is different, and treatment decisions should always be made in consultation with a qualified medical professional based on your individual circumstances, health history, and imaging. Outcomes from surgery vary between patients and cannot be guaranteed. If you have concerns about your hip health or are considering surgery, please contact Dr Slattery’s rooms to arrange a consultation.