- SPECIALIST ORTHOPAEDIC SURGEON | MELBOURNE, VIC | ALBURY NSW |
- 03 9421 6133
Augmented Reality Total Knee Replacement
Harnessing precision technology to support more accurate alignment, implant positioning, and surgical planning
Augmented reality (AR) is transforming the landscape of orthopaedic surgery. When it comes to total knee replacement, AR-assisted technology allows your surgeon to visualise your unique knee anatomy in real time and perform the procedure with a high degree of personalisation and precision.
Dr Jason Hockings offers Augmented Reality Total Knee Replacement using the NextAR system, a cutting-edge surgical platform designed to enhance planning, accuracy, and decision-making throughout your knee replacement journey. This approach may support improved outcomes by helping ensure the implant is aligned to your natural anatomy.
Dr Jason Hockings routinely uses the subvastus approach when performing total knee replacements, including those with patient-specific instrumentation and kinematic alignment techniques.
What is augmented reality in knee replacement surgery?
Augmented reality (AR) in knee replacement surgery is an advanced technology that supports more precise implant positioning by merging digital planning with the real-time surgical environment.
During the procedure, your surgeon utilises specialised smart glasses. These glasses display a 3D holographic overlay of your personalised surgical plan onto the actual view of your knee. This allows him to align and position the implant with enhanced visual guidance while maintaining a direct, unobstructed view of the surgical field.
Unlike traditional computer navigation or robotic systems, which often require bulky equipment and separate consoles, augmented reality is lightweight, portable, and surgeon controlled. The smart glasses are worn only during key stages of the operation, such as component positioning and alignment checks, and are removed once the AR guidance is no longer needed.
By incorporating your unique anatomy into a real-time visual guide, AR technology may help improve:
- Alignment accuracy
- Restoration of natural joint biomechanics
- Consistency in surgical execution
This modern approach is part of Dr Jason Hockings’ commitment to precision joint replacement using leading-edge technologies such as NextAR.
What is the NextAR system?
NextAR is the Medacta branded AR-based surgical guidance system developed to improve the precision and personalisation of orthopaedic procedures. For total knee replacement, it enables Dr Hockings to:
- Create a detailed, patient-specific 3D model of your knee using a low-dose CT scan
- Accurately plan implant positioning, alignment, and bone cuts based on your unique anatomy
- Use wearable smart glasses during surgery to project this plan directly onto the operative field
- Monitor every step of the procedure in real time, without large external robotic equipment
Because NextAR is compact, efficient, and highly adaptable, it blends seamlessly into the operating environment and enables enhanced surgical execution without compromising efficiency.
Benefits of augmented reality (AR) in total knee replacement
AR may offer several potential benefits, including:
- Improved alignment accuracy - By allowing more precise reproduction of your individual joint lines and limb alignment, AR guidance may help ensure the prosthetic components are positioned to closely replicate your natural biomechanics.
- Support for kinematic alignment techniques - AR technology integrates well with kinematic alignment; the surgical technique Dr Hockings often uses to restore the natural joint function rather than imposing generic mechanical angles.
- Minimally invasive integration - The AR system is designed to be lightweight and portable, avoiding the need for bulky robotic arms or large consoles. This can allow for shorter setup times and may reduce disruption to surgical workflow.
- Better visualisation for your surgeon - The wearable headset provides Dr Hockings with a ‘heads-up’ view of your anatomy and surgical plan, helping guide intra-operative decisions without looking away from the surgical site.
- Data-driven performance tracking - The system collects anonymised surgical data that may assist in continuous improvement and validation of technique.
How augmented reality complements Dr Hockings' knee replacement approach
Dr Jason Hockings combines NextAR augmented reality with his preferred techniques and technologies for total knee replacement, including:
- Kinematic alignment to restore your natural joint lines and motion patterns
- Patient-specific instruments (PSI) for tailored implant preparation
- Medial pivot (Sphere) implants for improved stability and more natural joint function
- Subvastus (muscle-sparing) surgical approach – to support a smoother recovery with less disruption to surrounding soft tissue
This combination of techniques is designed to help restore mobility, reduce pain, and support long-term joint satisfaction.
Is AR-assisted knee replacement right for you?
Not every patient will require augmented reality technology for their knee replacement, but for many, it can offer significant benefits, particularly when precision, personalisation, and joint preservation are a priority. During your consultation, Dr Hockings will discuss whether NextAR may play a role in your procedure based on your knee condition, anatomy, and treatment goals.
Is there an additional charge if augmented reality is used during my total knee replacement?
In most cases, there is no additional charge to you as a patient when augmented reality (AR) technology is used during your total knee replacement. AR is a tool worn by the surgeon, not the patient, that enhances precision by overlaying your personalised surgical plan onto your knee in real time. It is part of Dr Jason Hockings’ advanced approach to achieving accurate alignment and restoring natural knee motion.
Because AR is integrated into Dr Hockings’ surgical workflow without the need for large robotic systems or extra equipment fees, it typically does not incur any extra cost beyond the usual charges associated with private surgery.
If you are a private patient, you’ll receive a detailed surgical quote in advance. Should there ever be any cost difference due to surgical technology or implant type, this will be clearly explained during your consultation.
If you’re unsure about fees, private health insurance coverage, or any out-of-pocket costs, feel free to contact the practice for clarification.
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.
