Knees and hips are neck-and-neck for the title of most frequently performed joint replacement surgery in the U.S. However, orthopedic surgeons will tell you that total knee replacement is by far the more complicated procedure. The reason? Our knees are complex joints and as unique to us as our fingerprints.
Dignity Health Yavapai Regional Medical Center (YRMC) East is the first in Arizona to introduce next generation robotic-assisted surgery that tailors every total knee replacement to the patient’s one-of-a-kind anatomy.
“Every knee is different and every person who requires knee replacement surgery is different,” says Anthony V. Torres, MD, FACP, president and CEO, Dignity Health YRMC. “This new robotic platform recognizes those differences and allows orthopedic surgeons to tailor the surgery with more precision. It is a tremendous step forward in total knee replacement with advanced technology.”
How does the robotic-assisted surgery work?
The state-of-the-art technology is called the VELYS™ Robotic-Assisted Solution. It keeps the orthopedic surgeon, not the robot, in control during procedures. The surgeon uses an infrared camera and optical trackers during procedures to gather data about the patient’s knee. That information allows the surgeon to accurately remove damaged bone and precisely fit the implant that’s used with the VELYS.
The result? A total knee replacement that works in harmony with the patient’s anatomy to:
- Increase stability
- Boost mobility
- Reduce pain
- Improve range of motion
Life-changing technology
“This level of surgical innovation changes lives,” says Dr. Torres. “It will offer numerous opportunities for people who have endured knee pain, some for a long time. Our team is delighted to make this procedure available in our communities and throughout Arizona.”
For more information about YRMC’s orthopedic surgical services visit yrmc.org/services/orthopedic.