Robotic-Assisted Knee Replacement Surgery at AHN Grove City Hospital

If you have been living with knee pain for many years, you know how much it can affect your daily life. Simple things like walking, climbing stairs, or getting out of a chair may become harder over time.

If you have tried other treatments and still have pain, knee replacement surgery may be the next step. At AHN Grove City Hospital, your care team will help you understand all your options, including Mako™ robotic surgery technology, so you can make the choice that feels right for you.

When to consider knee replacement surgery

Many people live with knee pain for years before thinking about surgery. It is often not the first step. Doctors usually recommend trying other treatments first, such as:

• Physical therapy
• Medications for pain or inflammation
• Knee braces
• Injections

You may want to talk with a doctor about surgery if you have:

• Ongoing knee pain that limits daily activities
• Trouble walking, standing, or climbing stairs
• Knee stiffness or swelling
• Knee damage from arthritis or injury

“People often think they may be too young or too old for knee replacement,” said Alan Slipak, MD, orthopaedic surgeon at AHN. “Knee replacement is not about your age — it is about how much your pain is affecting your daily life.”

Understanding knee replacement surgery

The knee is made up of three main parts: the lower end of the femur (thighbone), the upper end of the tibia (shinbone), and the patella (kneecap). It’s possible for only one part to be damaged, but sometimes the whole knee is affected.

A partial knee replacement replaces only the damaged part of the knee. Total knee replacement replaces the entire knee joint.

Your doctor will help you decide which option is best for you based on an evaluation of your condition, lifestyle, and overall health. Robotic assistance can be used for both partial and total knee replacements.

How Mako surgery works

AHN uses minimally invasive techniques, including robotic surgery, whenever possible. As the latest advancement in knee replacement surgery, Mako robotic surgery technology helps surgeons plan and perform the procedure. 

Before surgery, your doctor may use a 3D scan to create a detailed picture of your knee. During surgery, Mako’s robotic system guides the surgeon. The surgeons always stays in control, but the technology can help improve accuracy.

This approach can help:

• Place the implant more precisely
• Protect healthy bone and tissue
• Improve how the new joint moves and feels

Benefits of robotic-assisted surgery

Robotic-assisted knee replacement is a minimally invasive approach. This means surgeons use smaller incisions than in traditional procedures. Every patient is different, but this can result in:

• Less damage to nearby tissue
• Less pain after surgery
• Shorter hospital stays
• Faster return to daily activities

“Knee replacement is a major surgery, but it is also very common and safe,” said Dr. Slipak. “With today’s tools and techniques, including Mako robotic assistance, we can perform these procedures with a high level of accuracy that supports faster recovery.”

What to expect after surgery

Recovery from a knee replacement takes time, but your care team at Grove City will be with you every step of the way.

Your care team will provide you with instructions and a general timeline for healing at home. They'll let you know if and when you should:

• Use ice and keep your leg propped up to reduce swelling.
• Start walking with support, like a cane or walker.
• Work with a physical therapist to rebuild strength and movement.
• Practice simple exercises at home.
• Gradually return to normal activities.

“Our goal is to get patients safely back on their feet as soon as possible,” said Dr. Slipak. “Within six to eight weeks, most patients are back to doing many of their normal activities, and are relieved to be doing them without pain.”

Take the next step toward relief

If you are considering knee replacement surgery, an orthopaedic specialist at AHN Grove City Hospital can help you understand your options — including Mako Robotic Technology — and create a care plan that fits your needs. Schedule an appointment today.