Sunshine Coast Orthopaedic Group

Procedure · Knee · Robotic-assisted

Robotic-assisted knee replacement.

The robot does not perform the operation. It builds a model of your knee, holds the surgeon to a plan agreed before any bone is cut, and measures ligament tension in real time so the plan can be adjusted with numbers rather than feel.

Call (07) 5493 8038 How it is performed
Reviewed by Professor Daevyd Rodda Orthopaedic Surgeon · MBBS, Dip. Surg Anat, FRACS, FAOrthA Last reviewed: 21 August 2026
What it is
Computer-assisted planning and cutting guidance
Who operates
The surgeon, throughout
Planning imaging
CT scan before surgery, in most systems
Added theatre time
Modest, and falls with experience
Component accuracy
Improved versus conventional instruments
Long-term survival
Not yet proven superior

How robotic surgery works

Before surgery, a CT scan of the patient's hip or knee is used to build a three-dimensional model of the joint. This model allows the surgeon to plan the procedure in advance, selecting the correct implant size, determining the optimal position and alignment, and mapping out bone cuts that are specific to the patient's anatomy rather than estimated during surgery.

During the operation, a robotic arm guides the surgeon's instruments within a pre-defined zone. The robot does not perform the surgery independently; the surgeon remains in full control at all times. What the robotic system provides is real-time feedback that keeps bone preparation within the planned boundaries, protecting the soft tissues and ligaments around the joint.

This is fundamentally different from conventional joint replacement, where the surgeon relies on manual instruments and visual assessment to position the implant. With robotic assistance, the plan developed from the CT scan is executed with a level of precision that the human hand alone cannot consistently achieve.

What the evidence shows

Studies published in peer-reviewed orthopaedic journals have shown that robotic-assisted hip and knee replacement achieves more accurate implant positioning than conventional techniques. More accurate alignment is associated with more predictable joint biomechanics, which may reduce wear on the implant over time and contribute to a more natural-feeling joint after recovery.

It is worth being direct about what robotic technology is and is not. It is a tool that enhances surgical precision. It is not a guarantee of a superior outcome. The skill and experience of the surgeon, the quality of the implant, and the patient's commitment to rehabilitation all remain critical factors in the result of any joint replacement.

Who may benefit

Robotic-assisted surgery is not necessary for every patient. It is most often considered for patients with complex joint anatomy, significant deformity, or where precise implant alignment is particularly important for the long-term function of the joint. Professor Rodda will assess whether robotic-assisted surgery is appropriate for you as part of your consultation.

  • Complex hip or knee anatomy that makes conventional implant positioning challenging
  • Significant joint deformity or leg-length discrepancy requiring careful correction
  • Patients where long-term implant survivorship is a particular priority, such as younger, more active individuals
  • Revision joint replacement where bone loss or altered anatomy demands precise planning

Recovery

Recovery after robotic-assisted joint replacement follows the same general pathway as conventional joint replacement, though some patients experience less early post-operative discomfort due to the more precise bone preparation and soft tissue protection. Most patients are walking with assistance on the day of surgery or the morning after, and return home within two to four days.

Full recovery, including return to sport and recreational activities, typically takes six to twelve weeks, guided by a structured rehabilitation programme. The milestones and precautions are the same as for conventional joint replacement, and are discussed in more detail in What is a Total Hip Replacement?.

Questions to ask

  • Would robotic-assisted surgery be appropriate for my specific anatomy and condition?
  • What are the potential benefits of robotic technology in my case compared to conventional techniques?
  • Is there an additional cost, and how does it interact with my health fund cover?
  • Does the use of robotic technology change my recovery timeline?
  • What evidence supports robotic-assisted surgery for my particular joint and stage of arthritis?

Common questions

Does the robot perform the surgery?

No. The robotic arm guides the surgeon's instruments within a pre-defined zone but does not operate independently. The surgeon remains in full control at all times. The robotic system provides real-time feedback that keeps bone preparation within the planned boundaries, but every decision and cut is made by the surgeon.

Is robotic surgery better than conventional joint replacement?

Robotic-assisted surgery achieves more accurate implant positioning than conventional techniques, according to published studies. More accurate alignment is associated with more predictable joint biomechanics and may reduce implant wear over time. However, robotic technology is a tool that enhances precision, not a guarantee of a superior outcome. The surgeon's experience, implant quality, and patient rehabilitation all remain critical.

How long does robotic-assisted surgery take?

The operation itself typically takes around the same time as conventional joint replacement, though the CT-based planning is done before the day of surgery. Including preparation, anaesthesia and recovery, the total time from ward to ward is usually several hours.

Is robotic surgery available for both hip and knee replacement?

Yes. Robotic-assisted technology is used for both hip and knee replacement surgery. The principles are the same: CT-based planning, a robotic arm that guides instruments within a safe zone, and real-time feedback to the surgeon.

Does robotic surgery cost more?

Robotic-assisted joint replacement may involve additional costs related to the CT scan and the technology itself. What is covered depends on your health fund and level of policy. Professor Rodda participates in no-gap arrangements with several health funds; the specifics should be discussed with the practice and your insurer before surgery.

Frequently asked questions.

Does a robot perform my knee replacement?

No. Professor Rodda performs the operation. The system builds a model of your knee, measures ligament balance, and constrains the cutting tool to the plan that has been agreed and verified. Every decision and every cut is the surgeon's.

Is a robotic knee replacement better?

It is more accurate at putting the implant where it was planned to go, and that is well established. Evidence for less early pain is moderate. Evidence that it makes the implant last longer does not yet exist, because the technology has not been in use long enough for twenty year data.

Does it cost more?

The surgical fee is not increased for robotic assistance in this practice. There is an additional CT scan before surgery. Your written fee estimate sets out every cost before anything is booked. See fees.

What is kinematic alignment?

Mechanical alignment aims every knee at a neutral axis. Kinematic alignment aims to restore the alignment that particular knee had before arthritis, on the basis that most people are not naturally neutral. Robotic measurement is what makes planning to an individual target practical.

Do I need an extra scan?

Yes, usually a CT scan of the hip, knee and ankle before surgery. It is used to build the model the plan is made on.

References.

  1. Australian Orthopaedic Association National Joint Replacement Registry. Annual Report. Adelaide: AOA.
  2. Kayani B, Konan S, Tahmassebi J, et al. Robotic-arm assisted total knee arthroplasty is associated with improved early functional recovery and reduced time to hospital discharge. Bone Joint J. 2018;100-B(7):930-937.
  3. Rivière C, Iranpour F, Auvinet E, et al. Alignment options for total knee arthroplasty: a systematic review. Orthop Traumatol Surg Res. 2017;103(7):1047-1056.

This page provides general information about a medical condition and a surgical procedure. It is not individual medical advice and does not replace consultation with a qualified practitioner. Outcomes vary between individuals and all surgery carries risk. A referral is needed for a consultation with Professor Daevyd Rodda; without one, you can start with the practice nurse practitioner, who can provide it.