Robotic Total Knee Replacement
in Los Angeles, CA

Benefits of Robotic Total Knee Replacement

There are several advantages to robotic total knee replacement, some of which include the following:

• Significant, if not complete, pain relief
• Restored joint function and mobility
• Regained the ability to enjoy an active lifestyle.
• Longer-lasting implant improvement compared to traditional knee replacement methods.

How Is Robotic Total Knee Replacement Performed?

Before Surgery

Before your robotic total knee replacement surgery, patients must undergo a series of pre-operative preparations. This typically includes a thorough medical evaluation to assess overall health and identify any potential risk factors. Patients may be required to make necessary lifestyle adjustments, such as discontinuing certain medications or addressing underlying medical conditions.

During consultations, patients are informed about the procedure, potential risks, and expected outcomes. Dr. Snibbe will listen carefully to any questions and concerns to ensure that patients clearly understand the surgery.

If you are considering robotic total knee replacement, expect to prepare for the procedure by taking these additional steps:

• Complete all pre-operative forms.
• Review your medications with Dr. Snibbe and stop those that may increase bleeding.
• Be examined by your primary care doctor to clear you for surgery
• Have your oral health evaluated (to check for infection).
• Complete any required imaging and laboratory tests.
• Make arrangements for your recovery.
• Fast as directed the night before surgery.

Your Robotic Total Knee Replacement Surgery

Robotic total knee replacement is performed under anesthesia to ensure your comfort. Anesthesiologists work closely with the surgical team to select the appropriate type of anesthesia, whether regional or general anesthesia, depending on your specific medical history and the extent of surgery. Once the anesthetic is administered, Dr. Snibbe will perform the following seven steps:

1. Incision and exposure – The surgical procedure begins with a carefully planned incision over the knee, allowing access to the damaged joint. In recent years, less invasive techniques have been developed, resulting in smaller incisions and reduced scarring. These techniques can also lead to a faster recovery.
2. Robotic assistance – Advanced technology plays a pivotal role in the success of this procedure. An automated system assists Dr. Snibbe throughout surgery and provides real-time feedback, enabling highly precise bone resection and implant positioning. A 3D model of your knee joint improves accuracy while determining the optimal implant size and alignment. This level of precision contributes to better long-term outcomes for the patient.
3. Joint Assessment – During the surgery, Dr. Snibbe will assess the damaged knee joint and make any adjustments needed based on his findings. This flexibility ensures that the procedure is tailored to your specific needs.
4. Bone Reshaping and Resurfacing – The next phase involves reshaping and resurfacing the damaged bone surfaces to prepare them for the implant. The robotic system assists our surgeon in precisely removing damaged bone and cartilage while preserving healthy tissue.
5. Implant Placement – The artificial knee components are positioned and secured after the bone surfaces have been prepared. The choice of implants may vary depending on your individual needs. The robotic system provides the optimal alignment and placement of these components, which are vital for long-lasting results.
6. Soft Tissue Balancing – The robotic system helps Dr. Snibbe achieve the optimal balance of the surrounding ligaments and tendons. Proper soft tissue balancing is crucial for the new knee joint to function correctly and comfortably.
7. Closure – After implant placement and soft tissue balancing, the surgical team carefully closes the incision, typically using sutures or staples. Special care is taken to minimize the risk of infection.