What is Robotic Hip Replacement Surgery and How is it Performed?

Hip replacement surgery with robotic surgery is more comfortable compared to conventional hip replacement surgery; thanks to computer-aided high-precision measurement, the prosthesis angle, depth, and alignment are performed more successfully. The recovery period after the procedure is faster.

What is Hip Replacement Surgery with Robotic Surgery?

Hip replacement surgery with robotic surgery is the process of placing an artificial hip joint using a computer-aided robotic system. During the procedure, the robotic arms are managed by the surgeon. Before the surgery, the insertion angle, depth, and alignment of the hip prosthesis are precisely planned with computer support, ensuring the completion of the procedure without any deviation. Robotic hip replacement surgery is generally performed with the Da Vinci robotic surgery system, which provides the surgeon with high precision, planning, and guidance support. Compared to conventional hip replacement surgery, the intervention on soft tissue is more controlled in the robotic-assisted prosthesis placement process, and the risk of leg length discrepancy is reduced.

Who is Eligible for Hip Replacement Surgery with Robotic Surgery?

Robotic hip replacement surgery is mostly applied to patients with advanced damage in the hip joint. Hip replacement surgery with robotic surgery is suitable for the following individuals:

• Patients with advanced-stage hip calcification (osteoarthritis)
• Patients whose joint integrity is impaired due to post-traumatic hip fractures
• Patients whose joint integrity is impaired due to post-traumatic hip fractures
• (Patients with congenital problems (Hip dysplasia, congenital hip dislocation, etc.)
• Patients who have had previous hip surgery but experience prosthesis incompatibility)
• Individuals at risk of leg length discrepancy

The final decision for hip replacement surgery with robotic surgery rests with the orthopedic specialist, and not every patient may be suitable for robotic surgery.

How is Hip Replacement Surgery with Robotic Surgery Performed?

Detailed planning is performed before hip replacement surgery with robotic surgery. The patient's hip joint is mapped in three dimensions using advanced imaging methods, and the obtained data is uploaded to the robotic system to plan a personalized surgery. In robotic surgery, the size, angle, and position of the hip prosthesis are predetermined and simulated.

During the surgery, incisions are made on the bones using robotic arms controlled by the surgeon, and the hip prosthesis is placed with high precision in accordance with the pre-determined plan. Thanks to the robotic system, soft tissues are protected at an optimum level. The procedure is completed after the position and stability of the prosthesis are checked.

What are the Advantages of Hip Replacement Surgery with Robotic Surgery?

Hip replacement surgery with robotic surgery provides the surgeon with the opportunity to perform the procedure with high precision, and the post-operative comfort for the patient is higher compared to conventional hip replacement surgery. The advantages of hip replacement surgery with robotic surgery are as follows:

• Maximum prosthesis compatibility is targeted.
• The risk of leg length discrepancy is reduced.
• The natural range of motion of the hip joint is preserved.
• Soft tissue damage is minimal.
• Long-term durability of the prosthesis is targeted with personalized surgical planning.
• Bleeding, tissue loss, and pain are less compared to conventional prosthesis surgery.
• Recovery time is faster.
• The risk of complications is lower.

What Should Be Considered After Hip Replacement Surgery with Robotic Surgery?

The recovery process after hip replacement surgery with robotic surgery is very critical. From the first days, the recommendations of the physiotherapist and doctor must be followed strictly. Considerations after hip replacement surgery with robotic surgery include:

• Mobilization should be started under the supervision of a physiotherapist after surgery.
• Crutches or a walker should be used during walking.
• Squatting should be avoided, and one should not sit on low seats.)
• The physical therapy and rehabilitation program should be implemented without interruption.
• One should not cross their legs or turn the operated leg inward.
• A pillow should be used between the legs while lying down as recommended by the doctor.
• Staying immobile for long periods should be avoided.
• In the first weeks, when going up stairs, the healthy leg should go first, and when going down, the operated leg should go first.

Frequently Asked Questions About Hip Replacement Surgery with Robotic Surgery

When Can I Sit After Hip Replacement Surgery?

The timing for sitting after hip replacement surgery can vary from patient to patient. The sitting time should be decided by the physiotherapist and doctor. It is necessary to avoid sitting for long periods in the first weeks. Low seats should not be used, and the hip joint should not be bent more than 90 degrees; when sitting, the kneecaps should not be higher than the hips.

Is Hip Replacement Surgery Dangerous?

Hip replacement surgery is as risky as any surgical operation, and complications such as infection, bleeding, and blood clots can occur. There is a risk of prosthesis dislocation. Although rare, nerve or vascular damage may be seen. Risks related to anesthesia may arise. The risk in hip replacement surgery with robotic surgery is lower compared to conventional surgery.

How Many Hours Does Robotic Hip Replacement Surgery Take?

Robotic hip replacement surgery takes an average of 2 hours, but the procedure duration varies depending on the patient's anatomy, general health status, and surgical difficulty. Anesthesia time and preliminary preparation are not included in this duration.

How Long Does Pain Last After Hip Replacement Surgery?

The duration of post-operative pain varies from person to person, and pain is more prominent in the first few weeks. The physical therapy process can affect the amount of pain; however, most patients can return to their daily lives within 6 to 8 weeks.

How Much Does Hip Replacement Surgery Cost?

The cost of robotic hip replacement surgery varies according to the hospital, technology, physician, the patient's general health status, prosthesis brand, prosthesis model, duration of hospital stay, and other services. Robotic surgery is more costly compared to conventional prosthesis surgery, and the price can also change based on the type of robotic system.