- SPECIALIST ORTHOPAEDIC SURGEON | MELBOURNE, VIC | ALBURY NSW |
- 03 9421 6133
Technology in Orthopaedic Surgery
How advanced tools and techniques support precision, safety, and recovery in your care
Modern orthopaedic surgery has advanced significantly in recent decades, driven by rapid developments in surgical techniques, medical devices, and digital tools. These innovations have transformed the way operations are planned, performed, and monitored, offering new opportunities to improve precision, safety, and recovery.
Dr Jason Hockings is committed to staying at the forefront of these advancements. He continually updates his knowledge and surgical approach, incorporating the latest evidence-based techniques and carefully selected technologies that can provide genuine benefits for his patients. While these technologies are powerful, Dr Hockings believes they are most effective when combined with experience, careful judgment, and a personalised approach to each patient’s needs. Technology is not a replacement for the surgeon’s skill, it is a partner that enhances accuracy, supports safety, and allows for more tailored treatment.Â
Pre-operative planning software
Before your surgery, Dr Hockings may use advanced pre-operative planning software to create a detailed blueprint of your procedure. This technology allows for precise measurements of your joint, careful evaluation of your anatomy, and the ability to plan implant positioning in advance. By simulating the surgery beforehand, it may help identify potential challenges and allow for a more tailored approach to your operation.
While the plan is an important guide, adjustments can still be made during surgery to suit your needs.
Patient-specific instrumentation (PSI)
Patient-specific instrumentation involves creating surgical guides based on your own anatomy, using information gathered from pre-operative scans. These custom-made guides may help Dr Hockings position implants more accurately, align the joint to your natural movement patterns, and reduce the need for extensive adjustments during surgery.
PSI can be particularly useful for patients with unique anatomical features or complex conditions.
Computer-assisted and navigation systems
Computer-assisted surgical navigation systems use real-time data to guide the positioning of implants with millimetre-level accuracy. During your surgery, Dr Hockings may use these systems to track instruments and confirm that the components are placed as planned. This can support precision in alignment, which is important for joint function and long-term implant performance.
This additional layer of precision may help to support the long-term function of the joint replacement.
Augmented Reality
Augmented Reality (AR) technology overlays 3D visual data onto the surgical field, giving Dr Hockings additional reference points during the procedure. This can enhance spatial awareness, help visualise implant placement, and improve the ability to make adjustments during surgery. While still an emerging technology, AR may be particularly helpful in complex or revision procedures.
By tailoring adjustments to your needs, augmented reality may support both the accuracy of the procedure and the function of the new joint.
Minimally invasive surgical techniques
Minimally invasive surgical techniques aim to reduce soft tissue disruption during your operation. By using smaller incisions and careful tissue handling, these approaches may help reduce pain after surgery, lower the risk of certain complications, and support a faster initial recovery. Whether minimally invasive techniques are suitable for you will depend on your condition, body type, and overall surgical plan.
Dr Hockings will discuss whether this approach is appropriate for your condition and goals.
Robotics in orthopaedics
Robotic-assisted surgery uses advanced systems to support accuracy in bone preparation and implant placement. These robotic tools are guided by the surgeon and work within defined safety parameters. In some cases, robotic assistance may help achieve a more consistent result, although it is not required for every procedure.
While robotic systems can be valuable, Dr Hockings’ clinical judgement remains central to all decisions during the procedure.
Enhanced recovery protocols (ERAS)
Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) protocols are designed to support your recovery before, during, and after surgery. This structured approach includes optimising nutrition, pain control, and mobility, and encourages early movement following your procedure.Â
ERAS protocols may help you return to daily activities sooner, but the specific plan will always be tailored to your needs and health profile.
Why technology matters for your care
While no technology can replace a skilled and experienced surgeon, these tools can enhance precision, support safety, and allow for a more personalised approach to your treatment. Dr Hockings may use a combination of advanced technologies and surgical approaches to help support accuracy, personalisation, and consistency in your treatment. Not every technology will be appropriate for every case, but each option is carefully considered based on your diagnosis, goals, anatomy, and overall health.
By integrating modern surgical innovations with thorough planning and clinical experience, Dr Hockings aims to provide care that is precise, safe, and tailored to your individual needs. This approach helps ensure that each procedure is guided by the most suitable tools, techniques, and recovery strategies for you.
ERAS protocols may help you return to daily activities sooner, but the specific plan will always be tailored to your needs and health profile.
During your consultation, Dr Hockings will explain the most appropriate surgical approach based on your condition, anatomy, and individual needs. Many people experience a significant improvement in pain, function, and mobility following hip replacement surgery. Recovery timelines vary depending on the surgical approach and your overall health, but most patients gradually return to walking, driving, and normal activities over the course of several weeks to months.
If you’re living with hip pain or stiffness that’s affecting your quality of life, a thorough assessment can help determine the cause and guide the right treatment path.
