Robotic-assisted knee replacement uses computer-assisted planning and intraoperative technology to help the surgical team plan and execute bone preparation and implant positioning according to the patient's anatomy. Performed by Dr. Vijay Chandar at Manipal Hospitals, Kanakapura Road.
Robotic assistance supports the surgeon’s planning and bone preparation. The surgeon remains responsible for decisions and the operation. Platforms differ in how they map the knee, guide instruments and provide feedback.
Some systems use a preoperative CT scan; others create a plan using measurements taken during surgery. A CT scan is not required for every robotic platform.
Depending on the platform, computer-assisted guidance or robotic instruments help the surgeon prepare bone to the chosen plan. The equipment does not independently perform the surgery.
Measurements help assess alignment and soft-tissue balance during the procedure. These are tools used alongside surgical judgement; they do not guarantee a particular recovery or outcome.
Robotic-assisted knee replacement is one tool within the overall treatment process. Suitability depends on the individual patient's condition and anatomy, and robotic assistance does not replace surgeon expertise. Published clinical studies suggest that computer-assisted alignment and soft-tissue balancing may improve implant positioning consistency compared with conventional instrumentation. Long-term outcomes depend on patient factors, surgical technique, rehabilitation and other variables.
During your consultation, Dr. Vijay Chandar will discuss whether robotic-assisted or conventional knee replacement is appropriate for your specific condition, and will explain the reasoning based on your imaging and clinical examination.
Note: The figures below are approximate ranges reported in clinical literature. Actual outcomes depend on patient factors, surgical findings, rehabilitation and other variables. Individual results vary and should be discussed with your surgeon.
Published clinical studies suggest that computer-assisted alignment and soft-tissue balancing may improve the consistency of implant positioning compared with conventional instrumentation in appropriately selected patients. The clinical significance of these differences in long-term patient-reported outcomes continues to be investigated. Robotic assistance is not universally superior to well-performed conventional surgery, and outcomes depend on patient factors, surgical technique, rehabilitation and other variables.
Robotic platforms differ in how they plan and execute the procedure. Some systems use a preoperative CT scan to build a 3D plan; others use intraoperative registration without preoperative imaging. The specific platform available for your surgery — and whether it is appropriate for your case — is discussed at consultation. The platforms identified for the surgical setting include CORI and VELYS. Availability of a specific platform at Manipal Hospitals, Kanakapura Road, is subject to independent confirmation at the time of surgical planning and is not guaranteed for any particular date.
The additional cost of robotic assistance over conventional knee replacement varies by platform, implant and hospital arrangement.
The cost premium is real. Whether it is worthwhile depends on your specific case, your activity profile and your priorities. This is a discussion to have with your surgeon.
Robotic knee replacement is not for everyone. It is best suited if you fit one or more of these profiles:
You want to return to walking, cycling and travel, and value precise implant positioning as part of a reconstruction intended to serve you for the long term.
Your knee is bow-legged, knock-kneed, or has severe rotational deformity. Planning may help assess alignment in selected cases; suitability depends on the examination and imaging.
If only one compartment of your knee is worn out, partial replacement may be an option after assessment of the remaining cartilage and ligament stability.
You have had a prior knee arthroscopy, ligament reconstruction, or fracture fixation. Distorted anatomy makes robotic planning particularly valuable.
You are planning both knees together and want to minimise overall time with a walking aid, where this approach is clinically appropriate for your case.
Discuss the expected benefits, limitations and additional costs of robotic assistance alongside conventional surgery.
Consultation, assessment and follow-up take place at VBJ Bone & Joint Clinic, Vajarahalli. Indicated surgery is planned at Manipal Hospitals, Kanakapura Road. The hospital team confirms platform availability, implants, preoperative assessment, admission arrangements and insurance eligibility for your case.
Review symptoms, examination, X-rays and previous treatment. Additional imaging, medical optimisation and anaesthesia assessment are arranged when needed. CT requirements depend on the robotic platform.
The surgeon performs the operation with robotic assistance where selected. Early mobilisation and discharge depend on medical stability, pain control, wound status, safe mobility and support at home.
Physiotherapy progresses according to recovery and the surgeon’s instructions. Walking aids, driving, work and exercise are discussed individually.
Ask for a written hospital estimate after assessment. The amount depends on the operation, implant, robotic platform, room category and medical needs. Robotic assistance may carry an additional charge. Confirm insurance approval, inclusions and exclusions before admission.
Bring your recent X-rays or MRI. We’ll examine your knee, review your imaging, and give you a clear recommendation — robotic, traditional, or non-surgical.