When you’re exploring knee replacement surgery, you’ll likely come across different terms and techniques. It can be confusing to understand how one approach differs from another and which might be best for you. One of the biggest questions patients have is about the difference between traditional surgery and computer-assisted surgery.
Dr. Kyle Stoops is an expert provider of advanced orthopedic care who specializes in both traditional and computer-assisted joint replacement. He understands that every patient is unique and believes in having open, clear conversations about the benefits of each approach. If you are trying to understand your options, you can schedule an appointment to discuss what makes sense for your specific situation.
Let's walk through the key differences between these two methods so you can feel more informed.
How Traditional Knee Replacement Works
For many years, traditional knee replacement has been a reliable and successful procedure for relieving knee pain. In this approach, the surgeon uses their experience, skill, and a set of specialized handheld instruments to perform the surgery.
These instruments include alignment guides and cutting blocks that are designed to help the surgeon remove the damaged bone and shape the remaining bone to fit the new implant. The surgeon relies on their visual judgment and feel to check the alignment and make sure the knee is stable and balanced. This method has helped millions of people, and in the hands of a skilled surgeon, it produces excellent results.
How Computer-Assisted Surgery is Different
Computer-assisted surgery isn't a completely different operation; it's an enhancement to the traditional method. The surgery is still performed by a skilled surgeon, but they have an advanced tool that provides an extra layer of real-time information and precision.
With a system like the 360CAS™ from Enovis™, Dr. Stoops uses trackers placed around your knee to create a live, 3D digital model of your joint. This model gives them precise measurements that the human eye can't see. Key differences include:
- Real-Time Data: Instead of relying only on visual checks, the computer provides objective, measurable data on your knee's alignment, movement, and ligament tension throughout the procedure.
- Dynamic Feedback: The system allows Dr. Stoops to move your knee and see exactly how the ligaments and soft tissues respond. This dynamic feedback helps them balance the knee for a more stable and natural feel.
- Intraoperative Customization: This information allows the Dr. Stoops to make tiny, precise adjustments during the surgery that are tailored specifically to your body.
The computer doesn’t perform any part of the surgery. It simply acts as an incredibly accurate navigation system, guiding your surgeon to place the implant in the ideal position for your unique anatomy.
Comparing Key Aspects of the Procedures
To make the differences clearer, let’s look at a side-by-side comparison of some important parts of the surgery.
Alignment and Implant Placement
- Traditional: The surgeon uses physical guides placed on the bone to determine alignment. Their experience is key to achieving the correct placement.
- Computer-Assisted: The surgeon uses a digital map of your knee that provides live measurements down to a fraction of a degree. This helps confirm that the implant alignment is as precise as possible.
Ligament Balancing
- Traditional: The surgeon assesses the tension of the ligaments, looking for the right amount of stability as they move the knee.
- Computer-Assisted: The system provides quantifiable data on ligament tension. This objective feedback helps the surgeon achieve a well-balanced knee, which can lead to better function and a more natural feeling after recovery.
Pre-Operative Planning
- Traditional: The plan is based on X-rays and the surgeon’s evaluation. Some surgeries may require additional pre-operative CT or MRI scans.
- Computer-Assisted (with 360CAS): The planning is also based on X-rays, but it’s enhanced with real-time data gathered during the surgery itself. This means no extra CT scans or MRIs are needed beforehand, which simplifies your pre-operative process.
Why Does This Difference Matter for You?
The goal of any knee replacement is a long-lasting, pain-free joint that lets you get back to your life. The precision offered by computer-assisted surgery can contribute to this goal in several ways.
Proper alignment is one of the most critical factors for the long-term success of a knee implant. When an implant is well-aligned, it moves more smoothly and distributes weight more evenly. This can reduce wear and tear on the implant, potentially helping it last longer.
Additionally, the ability to fine-tune the balance of the ligaments can result in a knee that feels more stable and moves more naturally. For many patients, this leads to greater confidence and satisfaction with their new joint.
Which Approach is Right for You?
It’s important to remember that both traditional and computer-assisted surgeries are effective options. A skilled and experienced surgeon like Dr. Stoops can achieve excellent results with either technique.
The best approach for you depends on several factors, including your specific anatomy, the complexity of your case, and your surgeon's recommendation. Some knee conditions are more straightforward, while others may benefit more from the added layer of precision that computer assistance provides. Dr. Stoops is experienced in both methods and can help you understand the pros and cons as they relate to your personal health needs.
Have an Open Conversation with Your Surgeon
Choosing the right surgical approach is a decision you will make together with your doctor. Learning about the differences between traditional and computer-assisted techniques empowers you to ask good questions and feel like an active partner in your care.
Dr. Kyle Stoops is committed to providing personalized care and using the most appropriate tools to help you achieve your goals. Whether it's with time-tested traditional methods or advanced computer-assisted technology, his focus is on your successful outcome. If you are considering knee replacement, we invite you to schedule an appointment with us today!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the computer doing the surgery instead of the surgeon?
No, your surgeon is always in control of the operation. Computer-assisted systems like 360CAS simply provide real-time data to guide the surgeon’s decisions and improve accuracy. All surgical steps and adjustments are performed directly by the surgeon.
Does computer-assisted surgery require extra scans or more appointments?
With the 360CAS system, there’s no need for additional pre-surgery CT scans or MRIs. The technology creates a live digital model of your knee during the procedure itself, which streamlines the process and avoids extra visits.
Do these techniques add a lot of time to the procedure?
While setup for the computer-assisted system might add a few minutes, the real-time feedback can actually make the overall process smoother and may help the surgeon make quicker, well-informed adjustments.
Is computer-assisted surgery only for complex cases?
Computer-assisted technology can benefit most patients, not just those with complex anatomy. The added precision and real-time data can help nearly anyone undergoing knee replacement get a more accurate fit and potentially a more natural-feeling joint.
