What Is Computer-Assisted Surgery? Understanding the Latest Orthopedic Techniques

When you hear the term 'computer-assisted surgery,' it might bring to mind images of robots performing complex operations on their own. It’s natural to feel a bit hesitant about technology playing such a big role in your medical care. The reality, however, is that this technology is a tool that gives your surgeon more information, helping them tailor the procedure to your body with incredible precision.

Dr. Kyle Stoops is an expert provider of advanced orthopedic care in Indianapolis and Terre Haute, specializing in computer-assisted surgery to help patients get the best possible results from their joint replacement procedures. To learn more about your options, schedule an appointment to talk with him and get the answers you need.

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Let’s take a closer look at what computer-assisted surgery truly means and how it can make a positive difference in your treatment.

What is Computer-Assisted Surgery?

Computer-assisted surgery, sometimes called surgical navigation, is not about replacing the surgeon. Instead, think of it as giving your surgeon a highly advanced GPS for your body. This technology provides real-time, detailed information during your operation that the human eye alone cannot see. It helps guide the surgeon, confirming that implants are placed in the most accurate and stable position for your unique anatomy.

Dr. Stoops uses the 360CAS™ system from Enovis™, a state-of-the-art platform designed to enhance the surgeon's skill. This system uses sensors to create a digital map of your joint, tracking movement and alignment with exceptional detail. Throughout the procedure, it provides live data and feedback, allowing your surgeon to make small, precise adjustments that can have a big impact on your long-term outcome. The surgeon remains in complete control the entire time, using the data to make more informed decisions at every step.

How Does the 360CAS System Work?

The process is straightforward and designed to integrate smoothly into your surgery without adding significant time or complexity. It also doesn't require any extra pre-operative imaging like CT scans or MRIs.

1. Setup of the System: In the operating room, the 360CAS system is brought in on a mobile cart that includes a computer screen and an infrared camera. The camera is usually positioned so it has a clear view of your knee during surgery, and the surgical team ensures the system is calibrated and ready before the operation begins.
2. Placing the Trackers: During the procedure, small trackers are placed around your joint. These sensors communicate with the infrared camera by reflecting the infrared light, allowing the camera to 'see' your joint in three-dimensional space.
3. Creating a Digital Model: As Dr. Stoops gently moves your joint through its range of motion, the system captures data. This information creates a dynamic, 3D digital model of your knee or hip.
4. Providing Real-Time Feedback: Throughout the surgery, the system provides live feedback on a screen. This data shows the precise alignment of your bones, the tension in your surrounding ligaments and soft tissues, and how the implant will function once it's in place.
5. Guiding with Precision: Dr. Stoops uses this information to guide the placement of the implant. If an adjustment is needed to improve alignment or stability, the system provides the exact measurements to do so. This helps achieve a result that is customized specifically for you.

This intraoperative, or 'during surgery,' customization is what makes the technology so powerful. It allows the surgeon to account for the unique way your body moves and the specific tension in your ligaments, which can lead to a more balanced and natural-feeling joint replacement.

The Surgeon Is Always in Control

One of the most common concerns patients have is whether the computer is 'doing' the surgery. It’s important to understand that this is not the case. The 360CAS system is a navigation tool, not an autonomous robot. Dr. Stoops is in the driver’s seat for the entire procedure.

The system provides objective, measurable data to supplement Dr. Stoops' experience and skill. It acts as a confirmation tool, verifying that the plan for your implant placement is being executed perfectly. This combination of expert surgical skill and precise technological feedback offers the best of both worlds, giving you added confidence in the outcome of your procedure.

Why Use Computer-Assisted Techniques?

The goal of any joint replacement is to relieve pain and restore function for years to come. The primary reason for using computer-assisted surgery is to enhance the accuracy of implant placement. Even a tiny variation in alignment can affect how the implant wears over time and how natural your new joint feels.

By providing real-time data, systems like 360CAS help reduce the risk of misalignment. Proper alignment is a key factor in the longevity of a joint replacement. When an implant is well-aligned, it distributes weight and pressure evenly, which can reduce wear and tear on the components over the long term. This may help extend the life of your implant and lower the chances of needing a revision surgery in the future.

Patients often find that a well-aligned joint simply feels better and functions more naturally, allowing them to return to the activities they love with greater comfort and stability.

Is This Technology Right for Everyone?

Computer-assisted surgery is a valuable tool for many joint replacement procedures, and it can be especially helpful in complex cases. However, the decision to use this technology is one you will make together with your surgeon. Dr. Stoops will evaluate your specific condition, your anatomy, and your goals to recommend the approach that will give you the best possible result. He believes in creating a personalized treatment plan for every patient, and that includes determining which tools will be most beneficial for your surgery.

Find Confidence in Your Surgical Plan

Understanding how computer-assisted surgery works can help ease any worries you might have and empower you to have a more informed discussion with your doctor. This technology is designed to support your surgeon's expertise, adding a layer of precision that can lead to a more stable, durable, and natural-feeling joint replacement.

If you are exploring joint replacement surgery, we invite you to schedule an appointment with Dr. Kyle Stoops today. Our team will help you understand all your options for finding lasting relief and getting back to a life in motion.

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