What is Robotic-Assisted Anterior Total Hip Arthroplasty?
Robotic anterior total hip arthroplasty is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that involves the use of a specialized robotic system (ROSA) to help position the prosthetic components or implants from an anterior approach rather than a traditional total hip arthroplasty approach. This is typically done for end-stage hip osteoarthritis.
During a traditional hip replacement, your surgeon operates from the side of the hip, whereas in a direct anterior approach, your surgeon operates from the front of the hip between muscle groups allowing for a faster recovery.
Accurate placement and alignment of the hip implant are crucial in total hip arthroplasty surgery. Robotic anterior total hip arthroplasty system utilizes intraoperative radiographs to aids the surgeon in performing the surgery. The robotic system can analyze these images and provide the surgeon with real-time information, feedback, and precision to facilitate optimal leg lengths and implant positioning. This can result in a more natural feeling hip following surgery.
Preparation for Robotic Anterior Total Hip Arthroplasty
In general, preoperative preparation for robotic anterior total hip arthroplasty will involve the following steps:
- A thorough examination is performed by your doctor to check for any medical issues that need to be addressed prior to surgery.
- Depending on your medical history, social history, and age, you will need to undergo tests such as bloodwork and imaging to screen for any abnormalities that could threaten the safety of the procedure.
- You should inform your doctor of any medications, vitamins, or supplements that you are taking.
- You may need to refrain from supplements or medications such as blood thinners or anti-inflammatories for a week or two prior to surgery.
- You should be off cigarettes or any other forms of nicotine as it inhibits proper healing
- A written consent will be obtained from you after the surgical procedure has been explained in detail.
Benefits of Robotic Anterior Total Hip Arthroplasty
There are several advantages of robotic anterior total hip arthroplasty over traditional hip replacement surgery, including:
- Smaller incisions leading to reduced scarring
- Minimal blood loss
- Less postoperative pain
- Shorter recovery period
- Quicker return to daily normal activities
- Precise placement of the hip implant with a reduced risk of hip dislocation
- Improved safety
- Increased longevity of the implant
