Knee replacement surgery is becoming more common as people stay active later in life. Fulfilling its promise to keep patients close to home for health care, Mercy Washington now offers a robotic-assisted knee replacement option. 

The latest in robotic-assisted joint repair, Mercy’s new system helps the orthopedic surgeon plan and carry out a personalized surgery based on each patient’s unique anatomy. 

“This new technology, combined with the surgeon’s expertise, helps ensure every knee implant is tailored for each patient,” said Dr. David Chalk, Mercy orthopedic surgeon and regional service line chair for Mercy orthopedics and sports medicine. “Surgeons are in complete control of the device, guiding its every move.”

Before surgery, a set of X-rays is used to create a 3D model of the patient’s knee anatomy, which the surgeon will use to plan the customized specifics of each patient’s knee replacement. During the surgery, the robotic technology uses a camera and trackers to identify the knee’s precise position, automatically adjusting with even the slightest movement to allow for an optimal implant fit. 

Recovery depends on the individual patient, but most patients are able to drive after two weeks and can resume moderate activity after three to four weeks. 

“All of our orthopedic surgeons have undergone advanced training to use the robot in order to personalize the surgical approach for each patient,” Dr. Chalk said. “We’re excited to offer this high-tech procedure right here in Washington, keeping our patients closer to home for the care they need.”