- SPECIALIST ORTHOPAEDIC SURGEON | MELBOURNE, VIC | ALBURY NSW |
- 03 9421 6133
Robotic-Assisted Total Knee Replacement
Blending surgical precision with advanced technology for a more personalised knee replacement experience
Robotic-assisted total knee replacement is an advanced surgical option that combines your surgeon’s expertise with computer-guided technology to improve accuracy in bone preparation and implant positioning. While the procedure is still performed by your orthopaedic surgeon, robotic systems act as an extension of their hands, allowing for precise, data-informed decisions throughout surgery.
Dr Jason Hockings offers robotic-assisted knee replacement in select cases, including the use of the Robotic Arm System and NextAR Augmented Reality (AR) technology, depending on your needs, anatomy, and available hospital resources. These technologies are designed to support more consistent outcomes by aligning your new knee with your unique anatomy and natural joint motion.
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 robotic-assisted knee replacement?
Robotic-assisted knee replacement involves the use of a robotic arm or digital guidance system to assist your surgeon during the operation. It begins with detailed pre-operative imaging (often a CT scan) to create a 3D model of your knee joint. This model allows for personalised surgical planning, helping your surgeon determine the optimal alignment, implant sizing, and bone cuts before entering the operating theatre.
During surgery, the robotic system provides real-time feedback and guidance to help carry out the plan with a high degree of precision. Importantly, robotic systems do not perform the surgery. Your surgeon remains in control at all times, using the technology to enhance accuracy and decision-making.
Robotic systems used by Dr Jason Hockings
Dr Hockings may use either of the following systems, depending on the hospital setting and your individual case:
Robotic Arm-Assisted Surgery
- A well-established robotic platform used to perform over 1 million procedures worldwide.
- Involves a pre-operative CT scan to create a 3D model of your knee.
- Allows Dr Hockings to make highly accurate bone cuts and place the implant with consistent alignment.
- Provides haptic (tactile) feedback to prevent movement outside the planned area.
Augmented Reality
- A wearable AR system that projects the surgical plan directly into Dr Hockings’ field of view using smart glasses.
- Does not require large consoles or robotic arms, allowing for seamless surgical workflow.
- Supports patient-specific planning, real-time visual feedback, and accurate execution of kinematic alignment techniques.
Benefits of robotic-assisted and AR-guided knee replacement
While not necessary for every patient, these advanced tools may support:
- More accurate implant placement based on your own anatomy
- Improved alignment that matches your natural joint motion (especially when combined with kinematic alignment)
- Better soft tissue balancing to avoid stiffness or instability
- Potential for quicker recovery and a more natural-feeling knee
- Lower risk of implant loosening or early wear, which may reduce the need for revision surgery in some cases
How robotic assistance fits into your personalised surgical plan
Dr Hockings uses robotic and augmented reality tools as part of a broader, individualised approach to total knee replacement. Your procedure may also include:
- Kinematic alignment to restore your natural joint motion
- Patient-specific instruments (PSI) to guide bone preparation
- Medial pivot implants to replicate natural knee movement
- Subvastus muscle-sparing approach – to reduce soft tissue disruption
These elements work together to create a knee that is stable, functional, and aligned to your body, not a generic template.
Is robotic or AR-assisted knee replacement right for me?
Robotic-assisted knee replacement may be recommended for patients who require a high level of surgical precision due to complex anatomy, previous surgery, or alignment issues. During your consultation, Dr Hockings will review your imaging, lifestyle goals, and medical history to determine whether robotic or AR-guided assistance will benefit your specific case. While technology can support precision, your surgeon’s expertise and surgical technique remain the most important factor in a successful outcome.
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.
