The Evolution of Knee Surgery - Trends and Innovations

Dr. Aashish Chaudhry, Managing Director of Aakash Healthcare Super Speciality Hospital, boasts over 20 years in healthcare. Under his leadership, Aakash Healthcare has gained acclaim for excellence. His expertise spans orthopedic surgery, including advanced robotic knee replacements and MIS hip surgeries. Dr. Chaudhry holds degrees from Maulana Azad Medical College, Lady Hardinge Medical College, and ISB Hyderabad, and is skilled in management and orthopedic surgery.

Total Knee Replacement (TKR), also known as total knee arthroplasty (TKA), is one of the most remarkable achievements in modern medicine, transforming the lives of countless people suffering from debilitating knee conditions.

The history of total knee replacement is one of decades of innovation, surgical mastery, and unwavering commitment to improving patients' quality of life.

The inception of total knee replacement goes back to the late 19th century when surgeons began experimenting with joint replacement procedures. However, it was not until the early twentieth century that the notion of complete knee replacement began to take shape.

During this time, knee replacement surgery witnessed gradual progress with surgeons experimenting with different materials and techniques to improve outcomes.

Current Trends and Future Prospects

The total knee replacement procedure is constantly evolving. Researchers are looking at new materials, such as bioactive coatings and improved polymers, to enhance implant life. Robotic-assisted operations have evolved, promising even greater accuracy and perhaps better results. Traditional joint replacement surgery is relatively traumatic for patients as it presents a long road to recovery.

In contrast, joint replacement surgery with robotics and augmented reality presents a whole new picture that allows surgeons to improve conditions for patients. Robotic joint replacement not only allows for high precision and individualization during surgery but also means less dissection and minimal soft tissue damage. In simple words, it means, less trauma for patients which means they can get back to work sooner than later. That’s not all, a robotic arm allows one to make real-time adjustments during surgery which further improves precision.

The Smart Knee implant is another significant innovation. The first of its kind device contains sensors within the prosthesis allowing you to stay connected with your healthcare team at all times. Furthermore, this FDA approved device is also biocompatible with your body as it uses materials similar to other implanted devices.

The device collects all the relevant data including the range of motion, walking speed, stride and gait length, and how many steps are being taken. This data is then transmitted to a secured database, allowing your medical team to keep up with your post-surgery recovery remotely and in real time. Moreover, it allows for a personally tailored rehabilitation program that further aids in a quick and smooth recovery. Lastly, allowing your surgeon to keep a check on your recovery plan to ensure your progress is on the right track helps in a smooth recovery.  The smart knee system has altered the way surgeons approach knee replacement.

Additionally, the integration of 3D modeling and printing has paved a new era of customization in the field of joint replacement surgery. Initially, a 3D model of the required joint is prepared and subsequently, the joints are printed through additive manufacturing with the help of several materials such as gypsum, ceramic, and stainless steel. 

Customized joint implants tailored to the unique needs of specific anatomy may reduce or eliminate the need for fixatives like bone cement. Besides, they also offer enhanced growth of the natural bone into the implant. This is especially important for those with complex conditions and with failed implants.