Computer-Aided and Robotically-Assisted Surgery
Computer-aided and robotically-assisted surgery (navigation) has received much attention in recent years. This type of surgery involves a camera and computer system/robot to guide the surgeon through the procedure. These systems often also require a preoperative MRI for CT scan as well. Proponents of computer-aided and robotically-assisted surgery believe that it gives the physician the opportunity to better customize the surgery for the patient’s specific anatomy. Some claim that this can allow for less invasive techniques and quicker recovery times, and also may claim that the surgery is more precise.
Dr. Scott was the first orthopaedic surgeon in the Inland Northwest to test computer-aided surgery technology. In fact, he helped to develop a system for a major manufacturer. He has also used the Mako robot extensively. While these techniques can be effective, it’s important to understand that there is actually very little solid scientific evidence proving that computers or robots improve surgical outcomes compared to more traditional surgery using manual instruments. The truth is that there is a lot of marketing of these technologies, by the implant manufactures and others that stand to gain by influencing patient’s choice of surgeon and procedure.
In fact, Dr. Scott has recently been at the forefront of this wave in technology, working on a major scientific project,that appears to be demonstrating that actually, the contrary may be true, that the computers and robots may not actually yield the best results and outcomes in hip and knee replacement. In fact, in one case, with the Mako robot, it turns out that the patients undergoing a total knee with the Stryker Mako are receiving one of the most outdated knee implant markets available for use in the US market. Obviously the implant manufacturer is not going to share this information, nor is the doctor using the Mako to implant hip and knee joints.
In summary, Dr. Scott wants his patients to know that current state-or-the-art non-computer/robot-assisted techniques are also highly effective and can be preferable for many patients. Dr. Scott is a leading expert in this area of computer- and robot-assisted hip and knee surgical navigation, so it’s important to talk with him about the most effective surgery technique for your needs.
