Medically Reviewed by: Dr. Vijay Kumar Sohanlal, MBBS, MS (Orthopaedics), Orthopaedic & Joint Replacement Surgeon, Founder & Owner, MAHI Multispeciality Hospitals, Kilpauk, Chennai.
Last medically reviewed: October 2026
Knee pain can make everyday activities such as walking, climbing stairs, standing for long periods, and getting up from a chair difficult. When the knee joint becomes severely damaged, these limitations may begin to affect work, sleep, and daily routines.
Osteoarthritis is a common cause of persistent knee pain. When the condition progresses, medication, physiotherapy, and activity modification may no longer provide sufficient relief. In such cases, knee replacement may be considered after a detailed medical assessment.
A robotic knee surgeon in Chennai can assess the condition of the joint and explain whether robotic-assisted knee replacement is an appropriate option. Understanding how the technology works, what it can and cannot do, and what recovery involves helps patients make informed decisions about their care.
What is Robotic-Assisted Knee Replacement?
Robotic-assisted knee replacement is a surgical procedure in which a surgeon uses a robotic system to support planning and selected steps of the operation. Depending on the technology used, the system may help assess the knee’s anatomy, guide bone preparation, and assist with implant positioning.
The robot does not independently diagnose the condition or perform the entire operation. The surgeon evaluates the patient, makes clinical decisions, carries out the procedure, and remains responsible for the treatment.
Robotic systems differ in how they collect information and guide surgery. Some use preoperative imaging to create a three-dimensional model of the knee, while others gather measurements during the operation. The exact process depends on the system and the patient’s clinical requirements.
The purpose of robotic assistance is to support the surgeon during specific stages of the procedure. It does not eliminate surgical risks or guarantee a particular outcome.
About Dr. Vijay Kumar Sohanlal
Dr. Vijay Kumar Sohanlal is an orthopaedic and joint replacement surgeon practising in Chennai. His published professional profile lists an MBBS from Mysore University and an MS in Orthopaedics from Sri Ramachandra University, Chennai.
His professional profile also describes additional training in joint replacement surgery in India, Germany, and Australia, including training in arthroplasty and arthroscopy.
His published career history includes a previous clinical leadership role in robotic joint replacement at Medway Hospitals and a senior joint replacement role at MGM Healthcare. His website also identifies him as the founder and owner of MAHI Multispeciality Hospitals in Chennai.
His listed areas of practice include knee and hip replacement and robotic-assisted joint replacement. The appropriate treatment depends on the patient’s diagnosis, examination findings, imaging, general health, and individual needs.
Patients considering robotic-assisted knee replacement can discuss the cause of their symptoms, the suitability of the procedure, alternative treatments, potential risks, and rehabilitation requirements during a clinical consultation.
How Does Robotic Knee Replacement Work?
The process generally involves assessment, planning, surgery, and rehabilitation. The precise steps vary according to the robotic platform, the implant, and the patient’s condition.
1. Assessment before surgery
The surgeon reviews the patient’s symptoms, medical history, previous treatments, mobility, and general health. A physical examination helps assess knee movement, stability, alignment, and functional limitations.
X-rays and other investigations may be recommended to understand the extent of joint damage and determine whether knee replacement is appropriate.
2. Surgical planning
When surgery is considered suitable, the surgeon plans the procedure according to the patient’s anatomy and the intended implant. Depending on the robotic system, planning may use preoperative imaging, measurements taken during surgery, or both.
3. Robotic assistance during the operation
During surgery, the system may help guide selected stages of bone preparation and support assessment of alignment or joint balance. The surgeon interprets the information and makes decisions based on the patient’s anatomy and the findings during the operation.
4. Implant placement
The damaged joint surfaces are prepared, and the replacement components are positioned according to the surgical plan and clinical assessment. The surgeon evaluates movement and stability before completing the procedure.
5. Rehabilitation
After surgery, the patient follows a rehabilitation plan based on individual needs. This may include supported walking, prescribed exercises, pain management, and follow-up appointments.
Recovery differs between individuals and depends on factors such as general health, the complexity of the procedure, pain, strength, and progress with rehabilitation.
Who May Be Considered for Robotic Knee Replacement?
Robotic-assisted knee replacement may be considered for selected patients with significant knee joint damage. The decision depends on the clinical need for knee replacement and whether robotic assistance is appropriate for the individual case.
Conditions that may lead to consideration of knee replacement include:
- Advanced knee osteoarthritis: Damage to the cartilage and other joint structures can cause persistent pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility.
- Rheumatoid arthritis: Inflammation may damage the knee joint and affect movement.
- Post-traumatic arthritis: Joint damage following an earlier fracture or significant injury may cause progressive symptoms.
- Knee deformity associated with joint damage: Changes in alignment may affect stability and walking.
- Persistent functional limitations: Pain and restricted movement may continue despite appropriate non-surgical treatment.
Symptoms such as difficulty climbing stairs, recurring swelling, stiffness, pain during walking, and discomfort that interrupts sleep should be assessed if they persist or worsen.
These symptoms do not automatically mean surgery is necessary. The robotic robotic knee replacement surgeon in chennai should evaluate the cause, severity, and impact of the problem before discussing treatment options.
Is Robotic Knee Replacement Suitable for Everyone?
No. Robotic assistance is not necessary for every patient who requires knee replacement, and not every person with knee pain needs surgery.
Suitability may depend on:
- The extent and location of cartilage and bone damage.
- Knee alignment and ligament function.
- The effect of pain on daily activities.
- The response to medication, physiotherapy, and other appropriate treatments.
- The patient’s general health and other medical conditions.
- The type of implant and robotic system available.
- The potential benefits, risks, costs, and alternatives.
A clinical assessment helps determine whether continued non-surgical care, conventional knee replacement, or robotic-assisted surgery is appropriate.
Robotic-Assisted vs. Conventional Knee Replacement
Both approaches aim to replace damaged knee joint surfaces and improve function. The main difference is how certain stages of planning and surgery are supported.
Conventional knee replacement
Conventional surgery uses established surgical instruments and techniques to prepare the joint and position the implant. It remains an appropriate option for many patients when performed according to the clinical requirements of the case.
Robotic-assisted knee replacement
Robotic assistance may provide additional information about the patient’s anatomy and support planning, bone preparation, or assessment of alignment, depending on the system used.
The surgeon remains responsible for the operation. Robotic assistance does not replace clinical judgement or eliminate the possibility of complications.
Which approach should you choose?
There is no single approach that is best for every patient. The value of robotic assistance depends on the patient’s anatomy, the system available, the procedure planned, and the outcomes being considered.
Patients should ask why robotic assistance is being recommended, what alternatives are available, and whether the expected benefits justify any additional cost. Conventional surgery may also be appropriate, depending on the individual circumstances.
The decision should be based on a clinical assessment rather than the assumption that newer technology always produces better results.
Potential Benefits and Limitations of Robotic Knee Replacement
Understanding both the potential benefits and limitations helps patients make informed decisions.
Potential benefits
Depending on the system and the patient’s condition, robotic assistance may help with:
- Planning the procedure according to the patient’s anatomy.
- Assessing alignment and joint balance during surgery.
- Guiding selected stages of bone preparation.
- Supporting the surgeon’s assessment of implant positioning.
These are potential technical advantages. They do not guarantee less pain, faster recovery, fewer complications, or longer implant life for every patient.
Risks and limitations
Robotic-assisted knee replacement carries risks associated with knee replacement surgery, including:
- Infection.
- Blood clots.
- Bleeding or wound-healing problems.
- Stiffness or reduced range of movement.
- Persistent pain or discomfort.
- Nerve or blood vessel injury.
- Implant wear, loosening, or other implant-related problems.
- The possibility of further surgery in the future.
The technology does not remove these risks. Additional costs may also apply, depending on the hospital and system used.
The surgeon should explain the relevant risks, expected benefits, limitations, and alternatives before the patient makes a decision.
What to Expect During a Consultation
A consultation helps the patient understand the cause of knee pain and whether surgery should be considered.
The assessment may include:
- A discussion of symptoms, medical history, and previous treatments.
- An examination of knee movement, alignment, stability, and walking.
- A review of existing X-rays or recommendations for further investigations.
- An explanation of the diagnosis and available treatment options.
- A discussion of surgical approaches, potential complications, rehabilitation, and follow-up.
Patients can prepare by bringing previous investigation reports, a list of current medications, details of earlier treatments, and information about how the pain affects daily activities.
It is important to understand why a particular procedure is recommended and whether non-surgical treatment remains reasonable.
Recovery After Robotic Knee Replacement
Recovery is gradual, and progress varies between patients. The procedure, general health, pain levels, mobility, and rehabilitation all influence the recovery process.
Early recovery
The clinical team provides guidance on pain management, safe movement, and supported walking when appropriate. Exercises may begin under supervision to help maintain knee movement and build strength.
Rehabilitation over the following weeks
Physiotherapy may focus on improving knee movement, strengthening the surrounding muscles, walking safely, and gradually returning to daily activities.
The use of a walker or walking stick depends on the patient’s progress and the treating team’s advice.
Longer-term recovery
Strength, balance, and everyday function may continue to improve over several months. Recovery timelines cannot be predicted precisely for every patient, and robotic assistance does not guarantee a faster return to activity.
Patients should follow instructions about medication, wound care, activity, exercises, and follow-up. Fever, wound discharge, increasing redness, new calf swelling, or worsening pain should be reported promptly. Chest pain or sudden breathing difficulty requires emergency medical assessment.
What to Expect Before, During and After Robotic Knee Replacement
Understanding the stages of knee replacement can help patients prepare for the treatment process. The exact pathway varies according to the patient’s condition and medical requirements.
Initial Orthopaedic Consultation
The first assessment includes a discussion of knee pain, stiffness, walking difficulties, previous treatments and their effect on everyday activities. The surgeon may examine knee movement, stability, alignment and surrounding muscles.
Diagnostic Evaluation
X-rays are commonly used to assess joint space, bone alignment and the extent of joint damage. Additional imaging may be recommended when clinically necessary. Existing medical conditions and previous treatment records are also reviewed.
Pre-operative Preparation
If surgery is considered appropriate, the patient undergoes medical fitness assessment and anaesthesia evaluation. Blood tests, cardiac assessment and other investigations may be advised based on age, medical history and individual risk factors.
Surgical Planning
The surgeon reviews the clinical findings and imaging reports to determine the appropriate procedure. If robotic assistance is planned, the relevant system-specific preparation and planning are completed.
Surgery and Early Recovery
The operation is performed using the selected surgical approach and anaesthesia plan. After surgery, the medical team monitors the patient’s condition and guides initial movement according to the recovery plan.
Rehabilitation and Follow-up
Physiotherapy and gradual activity progression form part of post-operative care. Follow-up appointments help assess wound healing, knee movement, mobility and rehabilitation progress.
Conclusion
Robotic-assisted knee replacement is one option for selected patients whose knee joint damage causes persistent pain and functional limitations. The technology can support planning and selected stages of surgery, but the decision to use it should be based on the patient’s clinical needs.
If you are researching a robotic knee replacement surgeon in Chennai, focus on understanding your diagnosis, the proposed treatment, its potential benefits and risks, and the alternatives available. Discuss recovery and follow-up requirements with the treating doctor before making a decision.
