Robotic Knee Surgeon in Kilpauk

Understand robotic-assisted knee replacement, patient assessment, treatment alternatives, potential risks and recovery, with guidance on discussing options with an orthopaedic

by Dr. Vijay Kumar Sohanlal
Updated: 15 October, 2026
Robotic

Medically reviewed by: Dr. Vijay Kumar Sohanlal, MBBS, MS (Orthopaedics), Orthopaedic and Joint Replacement Surgeon, Founder and Owner, MAHI Multispecialty Hospital, Kilpauk, Chennai

Last medically reviewed: October 2026

Knee pain can make everyday activities such as walking, climbing stairs, getting up from a chair and standing for long periods more difficult. Several conditions can cause these symptoms, including osteoarthritis, inflammatory arthritis, previous injuries and damage to the structures inside the knee.

When symptoms continue despite appropriate treatment, a medical assessment can help identify the cause and determine the next steps. Robotic-assisted knee replacement is one surgical option for selected patients with significant knee joint damage. Understanding how it works, what it can and cannot offer, and what recovery involves can help patients prepare for an informed discussion with an orthopaedic surgeon.

This guide explains the assessment process, available treatment approaches, robotic assistance in knee replacement and factors that influence recovery for people researching a robotic knee surgeon in Kilpauk.

What is Robotic-Assisted Knee Replacement?

Robotic-assisted knee replacement is a surgical procedure in which computer-based planning and robotic technology assist the surgeon with selected parts of the operation.

The technology may help the surgical team assess the patient’s knee anatomy, plan implant positioning and guide bone preparation during surgery. The surgeon remains responsible for clinical decisions and performs the operation. The robotic system does not independently diagnose the condition or carry out the entire procedure.

The exact process depends on the technology used, the patient’s anatomy and the surgical plan. Robotic assistance is not necessary for every patient, and conventional knee replacement remains an appropriate option in many cases.

Dr. Vijay Kumar Sohanlal – Robotic Knee Surgeon in Kilpauk

Dr. Vijay Kumar Sohanlal is an orthopaedic and joint replacement surgeon associated with MAHI Multispecialty Hospital in Kilpauk, Chennai. His clinical practice includes the assessment and treatment of knee and hip conditions, including cases where joint replacement may be considered.

He completed his MBBS through Mysore University and his MS in Orthopaedics at Sri Ramachandra Medical College, Chennai. His published professional profile also lists fellowship training in joint replacement surgery at Breach Candy and Lilavati Hospital in Mumbai, advanced joint arthroplasty training in Germany, and further training in joint replacement and arthroscopy in Australia

.His areas of clinical practice include:

Robotic-assisted and conventional knee replacement.
Hip joint replacement.
Revision knee and hip replacement procedures.
Assessment of knee arthritis and other joint conditions.
Selected arthroscopic procedures.

For patients considering robotic-assisted knee replacement, an orthopaedic consultation can help establish the cause of knee pain, assess the extent of joint damage and discuss suitable treatment options. Robotic assistance is not required in every case, and the choice of procedure depends on the patient’s clinical findings, overall health and individual needs.

When Should Knee Pain Be Evaluated?

Occasional knee discomfort may improve with rest or changes in activity. However, an assessment is appropriate when pain persists, repeatedly returns or starts affecting normal movement.

Symptoms worth discussing with a healthcare professional include:

Knee pain during walking or while climbing stairs.
Stiffness after sitting or resting.
Swelling or reduced movement in the joint.
Difficulty standing up from a chair or walking usual distances.
A feeling that the knee is unstable or does not move normally.
Pain that interferes with sleep or routine activities.

These symptoms do not automatically mean that knee replacement is required. A clinician needs to assess the cause, severity and effect on daily function.

Sudden severe pain with a hot, swollen knee or fever requires prompt medical assessment, particularly if infection is a possibility.

How is a Patient Assessed for Knee Replacement?

The assessment usually begins with a discussion about symptoms, previous treatment, medical history and daily activities. The clinician may examine the knee, evaluate its range of movement and assess walking, alignment and stability.

Depending on the findings, investigations such as X-rays or other imaging may be recommended. These help assess joint damage and guide treatment planning.

Treatment decisions consider several factors, including:

The extent of cartilage and joint damage.
The severity and duration of symptoms.
The effect of pain on daily activities.
Previous treatment and the response to it.
General health and other medical conditions.
The patient’s expectations and rehabilitation needs.

A diagnosis and treatment plan should follow an individual assessment rather than being based on symptoms or imaging alone.

How Does Robotic-Assisted Knee Replacement Work?

The procedure generally involves several stages.

1. Preoperative assessment and planning

The surgical team evaluates the knee and reviews relevant imaging. Depending on the robotic system, specialised imaging or other measurements may be used to create a plan for implant positioning and bone preparation.

2. Surgical procedure

The surgeon performs the knee replacement, using the robotic system to assist with selected steps according to the planned approach. The surgeon remains in control of the operation and makes clinical decisions throughout.

3. Implant positioning and assessment

The surgeon checks the joint, implant positioning and alignment during the procedure. The specific checks available depend on the surgical technique and technology used.

4. Rehabilitation

After surgery, the patient receives guidance on movement, walking assistance, exercises, wound care and follow-up appointments. Rehabilitation is adjusted according to the procedure, general health and progress.

What are the Potential Benefits and Limitations?

Robotic assistance can support detailed preoperative planning and help guide implant positioning. Some systems also provide measurements that assist the surgeon in assessing alignment and joint balance during the procedure.

However, the technology does not guarantee a particular result. Outcomes depend on several factors, including the patient’s condition, the surgical approach, the surgeon’s judgement, rehabilitation and general health.

Patients should also understand that robotic-assisted surgery may involve additional technology-related costs. Its availability, suitability and possible advantages vary between patients and surgical systems.

The decision should be made after discussing the expected benefits, limitations, alternatives and costs with the treating surgeon.

Are There Alternatives to Knee Replacement?

Not every person with knee pain needs surgery. Depending on the diagnosis and severity of the condition, treatment may include:

Physiotherapy and exercises recommended for the individual.
Adjustments to activities that aggravate symptoms.
Weight management, where appropriate.
Medication prescribed after considering the patient’s medical history.
Selected injections or other treatments when clinically appropriate.
Knee replacement when joint damage and symptoms warrant surgical treatment.

If non-surgical measures no longer provide adequate relief and joint damage significantly affects daily activities, the clinician may discuss whether partial or total knee replacement is suitable.

What Should Patients Know About Recovery?

Recovery after knee replacement varies from person to person. Age, general health, muscle strength, the condition of the knee before surgery and participation in rehabilitation can all influence progress.

Some patients begin standing or walking with assistance soon after surgery, when the clinical team considers it appropriate. Further progress may involve walking aids, prescribed exercises, wound monitoring and gradual increases in activity.

Patients should follow their own rehabilitation plan rather than rely on a fixed recovery timeline. Pain, swelling and stiffness may take time to settle, and improvements in strength and function can continue over several months.

Possible complications of knee replacement include infection, blood clots, stiffness, persistent pain, implant-related problems and risks associated with anaesthesia. The treating team should explain the relevant risks and measures used to reduce them.

Frequently Asked Questions

Robotic-assisted knee replacement uses computer-based planning and robotic technology to guide selected surgical steps. Conventional knee replacement uses established surgical instruments without that robotic guidance. Both approaches require the surgeon to plan and perform the operation, and suitability depends on the individual case.

No. The surgeon performs the operation and makes the clinical decisions. The robotic system provides planning, measurements and guidance for selected parts of the procedure, depending on the technology used.

It may be considered for selected patients with significant knee joint damage and persistent symptoms when replacement surgery is appropriate. A clinical assessment helps determine whether robotic assistance is suitable or whether another treatment approach is preferable.

No. Not everyone with knee pain needs replacement surgery, and not every patient requiring replacement needs robotic assistance. The decision depends on the diagnosis, joint anatomy, general health, available technology and the surgeon’s assessment.

Potential risks include infection, blood clots, stiffness, persistent pain, implant-related complications and anaesthesia-related risks. The likelihood of complications varies, so patients should discuss their individual risk factors with their treating team.

Recovery varies with the patient’s health, the procedure, preoperative mobility and rehabilitation. Walking with assistance may begin early when clinically appropriate, while strength, movement and everyday function may continue to improve over several months.

Review the surgeon’s verified medical qualifications, relevant training, registration details and experience with the proposed procedure. Ask about alternative treatments, potential risks, expected rehabilitation, follow-up care and the total estimated cost before making a decision.