Advanced Robotic-Assisted Knee Replacement Surgery by Dr. Girish Dhanawat
Persistent knee pain can make simple activities like walking, climbing stairs, sitting down or getting up from a chair increasingly difficult. When severe arthritis damages the knee joint and non-surgical treatments no longer provide sufficient relief, knee replacement surgery may help restore mobility and improve quality of life.
Robotic knee replacement in Thane is an advanced surgical approach that combines the expertise of an orthopaedic surgeon with robotic-assisted technology for detailed surgical planning and precise implant positioning.
Dr. Girish Dhanawat, an Orthopedic Surgeon and Joint Replacement Specialist in Thane, provides personalised evaluation and treatment for knee arthritis and joint problems. His approach focuses on accurate diagnosis, careful surgical planning, patient safety and structured rehabilitation.
Whether you are experiencing advanced knee arthritis or considering knee replacement surgery, a consultation can help determine whether robotic-assisted surgery is suitable for your condition.
Book a Knee Replacement ConsultationWhat Is Robotic Knee Replacement Surgery?
Robotic knee replacement is a surgical procedure in which an orthopaedic surgeon uses a robotic-assisted system to plan and perform knee replacement surgery with greater precision in selected technical steps.
During the procedure, damaged cartilage and bone surfaces are removed and replaced with artificial components designed to support smoother joint movement.
The robotic system provides information about the patient's knee anatomy, alignment and implant positioning. It helps the surgeon follow a personalised surgical plan.
The robot does not perform the operation independently. The orthopaedic surgeon remains responsible for planning, controlling and completing the surgery.
Depending on the technology used, robotic assistance may include three-dimensional imaging, computer-based planning, real-time tracking and guidance during bone preparation.
The primary objective is to improve the accuracy and consistency of implant placement while restoring knee function and relieving arthritis-related pain.
Who May Need Robotic Knee Replacement?
Robotic-assisted knee replacement may be considered for patients with advanced knee joint damage who continue to experience pain and mobility limitations despite appropriate non-surgical treatment.
The procedure is commonly considered for people with the following conditions:
Advanced Knee Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis occurs when the protective cartilage covering the knee joint gradually wears away. Advanced cartilage loss may cause persistent pain, stiffness, swelling and difficulty walking.
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis is an inflammatory condition that can damage the knee joint over time. Knee replacement may be considered when joint destruction becomes severe and medical treatment does not adequately control symptoms.
Knee Deformity and Alignment Problems
Advanced arthritis may cause bow-legged or knock-kneed alignment. Knee replacement surgery aims to improve joint alignment and stability while addressing damaged joint surfaces.
Persistent Knee Pain
Patients experiencing significant knee pain during walking, standing, stair climbing or even at rest may require surgical evaluation when medication and physiotherapy are no longer effective.
Severe Stiffness and Limited Movement
Severe stiffness, limited movement and difficulty performing everyday activities may indicate advanced joint deterioration.
Not everyone with knee arthritis requires knee replacement. Dr. Girish Dhanawat evaluates symptom severity, X-rays, physical examination findings, overall health and response to previous treatments before discussing surgical options.
Potential Benefits of Robotic-Assisted Knee Replacement
Robotic technology is designed to assist the surgeon with accurate planning and implant placement. Its potential advantages include:
1. Personalised Surgical Planning
Robotic systems can help surgeons assess individual knee anatomy and plan implant alignment according to the patient's joint characteristics.
2. Precise Bone Preparation and Implant Positioning
Computer-assisted guidance can improve the precision of bone preparation and component positioning compared with conventional instrumentation.
3. Joint Alignment and Ligament Assessment
Certain robotic systems provide information about joint alignment, ligament tension and movement during surgery, helping the surgeon make appropriate adjustments.
4. Guidance Within Planned Boundaries
Depending on the robotic platform, technology can assist the surgeon in performing planned bone cuts within defined boundaries.
5. Adaptation to Individual Knee Anatomy
Robotic assistance can help adapt the surgical plan to variations in knee anatomy and deformity rather than relying on a single standard alignment approach.
6. Technical Consistency
Robotic guidance may reduce variations in some technical aspects of knee replacement surgery.
Important: Although robotic-assisted techniques can improve the accuracy of implant positioning, research has not consistently established superior long-term pain relief, recovery, implant survival or functional outcomes compared with well-performed conventional knee replacement.
How Is Robotic Knee Replacement Performed?
Robotic-assisted knee replacement involves several carefully planned stages.
Step 1: Knee Evaluation and Investigations
Dr. Girish Dhanawat evaluates the patient's symptoms, medical history, walking pattern, joint movement and knee alignment.
X-rays and, when appropriate, additional imaging help determine the extent of joint damage and suitability for replacement surgery.
Step 2: Personalised Surgical Planning
The surgeon prepares a surgical plan based on the patient's knee anatomy.
Depending on the robotic system, imaging or intraoperative mapping is used to create a virtual representation of the knee and guide implant positioning.
Step 3: Anaesthesia and Surgical Preparation
The procedure is performed under suitable anaesthesia determined by the anaesthesia team.
The surgical team prepares the knee and follows established safety and infection-prevention protocols.
Step 4: Robotic-Guided Bone Preparation
The surgeon uses robotic guidance to prepare damaged bone surfaces according to the surgical plan.
The system assists with precision, while the surgeon maintains control throughout the procedure.
Step 5: Implant Placement and Joint Assessment
Artificial knee components are positioned, and the surgeon assesses joint stability, movement and alignment.
Adjustments may be made to achieve appropriate knee balance and function.
Step 6: Postoperative Recovery and Rehabilitation
After surgery, patients begin a structured recovery programme that may include pain management, assisted walking, physiotherapy and follow-up assessments.
Recovery instructions are adjusted according to individual progress and medical needs.
Robotic-Assisted vs Conventional Knee Replacement
Both robotic-assisted and conventional knee replacement aim to relieve pain and improve mobility by replacing damaged joint surfaces.
The choice between robotic and conventional knee replacement depends on the patient's knee condition, available technology, surgical considerations and overall treatment goals.
Recovery After Robotic Knee Replacement Surgery
Recovery is an important part of successful knee replacement treatment. The aim is to restore safe movement, improve muscle strength and help patients return gradually to their normal activities.
Early Mobilisation
Many patients begin standing and walking with assistance within the first day, depending on their medical condition and the surgical team's advice.
Pain control, ankle movement, knee exercises and early mobilisation are commonly encouraged.
Initial Recovery
During the initial recovery period, patients focus on wound care, swelling management, prescribed medications and physiotherapy.
A walker or other walking aid may be needed temporarily.
Progressive Walking and Physiotherapy
Many patients gradually increase their walking distance and confidence. Physiotherapy continues to focus on knee bending, straightening, muscle strength and balance.
Some daily activities may become easier as healing progresses.
Improving Functional Independence
Patients often notice continued improvement in mobility and functional independence, although recovery differs according to age, muscle strength, existing medical conditions and rehabilitation progress.
Long-Term Recovery
Further improvements in strength, comfort and knee function can continue for several months. Some patients require up to a year to experience their more complete recovery.
Recovery is not necessarily faster simply because robotic assistance was used. Consistent rehabilitation, suitable pain management and follow-up care remain essential.
What Is the Cost of Robotic Knee Replacement in Thane?
The cost of robotic knee replacement surgery in Thane varies depending on the type of robotic technology, hospital facilities, implant selection and individual medical requirements.
Factors that may influence the overall cost include:
- Type of knee replacement: partial or total, and single or both knees
- Implant type and manufacturer
- Robotic equipment and hospital charges
- Surgeon, anaesthesia and operating theatre fees
- Length of hospital stay
- Medical investigations and medications
- Physiotherapy and postoperative rehabilitation
- Insurance coverage and applicable policy conditions
An accurate estimate can be provided after clinical evaluation and confirmation of the proposed surgery and hospital.
Patients should also ask whether the quoted package includes implants, investigations, rehabilitation, follow-up visits and potential additional charges.
Why Consult Dr. Girish Dhanawat for Robotic Knee Replacement in Thane?
Choosing a knee replacement surgeon involves more than selecting a particular technology. Accurate diagnosis, appropriate patient selection, surgical planning and postoperative care all influence treatment decisions.
Orthopaedic and Joint Replacement Expertise
Dr. Girish Dhanawat, MBBS, D. Ortho., is an Orthopedic Surgeon and Joint Replacement Specialist in Thane, with a clinical focus on knee and hip conditions, arthroscopy and joint replacement.
Individualised Treatment Decisions
Every patient's arthritis severity, general health, mobility and treatment goals are different. Treatment decisions are made after evaluating these factors rather than recommending surgery solely on the basis of age or X-ray findings.
Robotic and Conventional Joint Replacement Care
Dr. Dhanawat's practice includes robotic and conventional joint replacement care, allowing discussion of suitable surgical approaches according to the patient's needs.
Clear Communication and Informed Decisions
Patients receive information about their diagnosis, treatment alternatives, possible surgical risks and expected rehabilitation requirements before making a decision.
Rehabilitation and Follow-Up Guidance
Care extends beyond surgery to include rehabilitation guidance, follow-up assessment and recommendations for maintaining mobility.
When Should You Consult a Knee Replacement Specialist?
Consider an orthopaedic consultation if you experience persistent knee pain that limits walking or daily activities, increasing stiffness, recurrent swelling, disturbed sleep due to knee discomfort, progressive bowing of the knee, or inadequate relief from recommended non-surgical treatments.
An evaluation can help determine whether continued conservative treatment, another procedure or knee replacement is appropriate.
Discuss your mobility goals and medical history to understand whether robotic-assisted knee replacement may be suitable for you.
Frequently Asked Questions About Robotic Knee Replacement in Thane
What is robotic knee replacement surgery?
Robotic knee replacement is a form of knee replacement surgery in which robotic-assisted technology helps an orthopaedic surgeon plan and accurately position knee implants. The surgeon controls the procedure, and the robotic system provides technical guidance.
Is robotic knee replacement better than conventional knee replacement?
Robotic assistance may improve the accuracy of implant alignment and positioning. However, available research has not consistently demonstrated better long-term pain relief or functional outcomes than conventional knee replacement. The most appropriate option depends on individual circumstances.
Who is suitable for robotic knee replacement?
Patients with advanced knee arthritis, significant joint damage, persistent pain and difficulty performing daily activities despite non-surgical treatment may be considered. A clinical examination and imaging are needed to determine suitability.
Is robotic knee replacement painful?
Anaesthesia is used during surgery to prevent surgical pain. Postoperative discomfort is expected and is managed using medication, physiotherapy and other recovery measures recommended by the treating team.
How long does recovery take after robotic knee replacement?
Many patients begin assisted walking within a day after surgery. Functional recovery often progresses over 6–12 weeks, while strength and knee movement may continue improving for several months or longer.
How long does a knee replacement implant last?
Implant longevity varies according to implant design, surgical factors, patient activity, body weight and general health. Many modern knee replacements function for 15–20 years or longer, but individual outcomes cannot be guaranteed.
Can both knees be replaced using robotic-assisted techniques?
Both knees can sometimes be replaced using robotic-assisted techniques. Whether simultaneous or staged surgery is appropriate depends on medical fitness, arthritis severity and individual surgical risk.
What is the cost of robotic knee replacement in Thane?
Costs vary according to the hospital, robotic system, implant, type of surgery and rehabilitation needs. A personalised estimate is generally provided after consultation and treatment planning.
Does the robot perform knee replacement surgery independently?
No. Robotic systems assist the orthopaedic surgeon with planning and technical guidance. The surgeon remains responsible for controlling the procedure and making surgical decisions.
Where can I consult a robotic knee replacement surgeon in Thane?
Patients can consult Dr. Girish Dhanawat, Orthopedic Surgeon and Joint Replacement Specialist, at his clinic in Naupada, Thane West, for assessment of knee arthritis and discussion of robotic or conventional knee replacement options.
Consult Dr. Girish Dhanawat for Robotic Knee Replacement in Thane
Severe knee arthritis can gradually affect independence, mobility and everyday comfort. Understanding the available treatment options is an important step towards making an informed decision about knee replacement surgery.
Dr. Girish Dhanawat offers patient-centred orthopaedic consultations in Thane, with a focus on accurate diagnosis, appropriate treatment selection and practical recovery guidance.
If knee pain continues despite medication, exercise or physiotherapy, schedule a consultation to understand whether robotic-assisted knee replacement could be suitable for you.
Dr. Girish Dhanawat MBBS, D. Ortho. Orthopedic Surgeon & Joint Replacement Specialist
Clinic Address: 1st Floor, Office No. 5, Lokmanya Co-Operative Housing Society, 6, Veer Savarkar Marg, Near Gajanan Maharaj Mandir, Naupada, Thane West, Maharashtra – 400602.
Contact: +91 9004700318
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