Robotic Assistance Revolutionizes Joint Replacement at RVH

A new chapter in orthopaedic surgery is unfolding at the Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre (RVH) with the introduction of robotic-assisted procedures. Starting on January 19, 2024, RVH will begin utilizing advanced robotic technology for knee and hip replacements, significantly enhancing patient care in these major surgeries.

The robotic system, named ROSA (RObotic Surgical Assistant), is designed to assist surgeons rather than replace them. Surgeons will maintain full control throughout the operations, while ROSA will offer support by improving accuracy and consistency. This technology employs real-time guidance and detailed imaging to help tailor surgical plans to each patient’s unique needs.

The anticipated benefits of robotic assistance include more precise implant placement, reduced post-surgery discomfort, improved mobility, and a quicker recovery process. The program will initially focus on total knee replacements using the Zimmer Biomet ROSA® Knee System. In late February, the Stryker Mako SmartRoboticsTM system will be introduced to assist with partial knee replacements, followed by total knee and total hip replacements.

Dr. Ryan Perlus, an orthopaedic surgeon at RVH, highlighted the transformative potential of joint replacement surgery: “Joint replacement surgery can be life-changing for people who have lived for years with pain and limited mobility. Robotic assistance allows us to tailor each procedure to the individual by using personalized surgical plans and real-time guidance to support safe, precise, and consistent outcomes, while keeping the surgeon firmly in control.”

The health centre estimates that approximately 400 out of 1,400 hip and knee replacement surgeries annually will benefit from this new technology. While RVH acknowledges that not all patients will require robotic assistance, it emphasizes that traditional surgical methods remain a viable option.

Gail Hunt, President and CEO of RVH, expressed enthusiasm for the advancement: “This is a meaningful step forward in the type of technology we use and how we continue to innovate and advance care for patients across our region. As demand for orthopaedic surgery continues to grow in our rapidly expanding community, this program ensures patients can access precise, personalized, state-of-the-art care close to home, delivered by highly skilled teams and supported by an incredibly generous community.”

The funding for the robotic systems was entirely sourced from community donations, underscoring the vital role of local support in advancing healthcare technology. The introduction of robotic-assisted surgeries signifies a substantial leap forward in orthopaedic care, promising better outcomes for patients and enhancing the overall quality of service at RVH.