Meerabai, a 58-year-old homemaker from a Pune, had always been the heart of her family. She spent decades caring for her loved ones, cooking their favorite meals, and ensuring the house was always filled with warmth. But over the years, her knees began to fail her. Climbing the stairs to her small rooftop garden became impossible, and even walking to the local market was a struggle.

Diagnosed with advanced osteoarthritis, Meerabai’s life was overshadowed by pain. Her family watched helplessly as the once-vibrant woman became confined to a chair, her dreams of attending her niece’s wedding in Nashik fading away. The local doctors suggested knee replacement surgery, but the idea of undergoing such a major procedure terrified her.

It was her son, Arjun, who found a ray of hope. While researching online, he discovered a renowned orthopedic center in Mumbai, specializing in knee replacement surgeries. Encouraged by the success stories and affordable costs, Arjun convinced his mother to take a leap of faith.

The family’s arrival in hospital marked the beginning of Meerabai’s journey to healing. The surgery was a success, and within a day, Meerabai was sitting up in bed with a newfound determination. The hospital’s physiotherapy team became her cheerleaders, guiding her through exercises with care and encouragement. “Chalo, Meera ji, aap kar sakte ho!” they’d say, and each small step felt like a victory.

After two weeks, Meerabai returned home, but this time she didn’t just walk into her house—she danced. Her family cheered as she twirled her saree-clad self around the living room, laughing like she hadn’t in years. Not only did she attend her niece’s wedding in Nashik, but she also took the stage to join in the traditional dances, becoming the star of the celebration.

Today, Meerabai is back to her vibrant self, tending to her garden, visiting temples, and even joining a local yoga group. Meera’s story is one of courage, love, and the healing power of modern medicine combined with compassionate care. For her, the journey wasn’t just about fixing her knees—it was about reclaiming her life, one joyful step at a time.

1. Injuries

• Ligament Injuries: Torn ligaments, such as the ACL (anterior cruciate ligament), often caused by sports or accidents.
• Meniscus Tears: Damage to the cartilage between the thigh and shin bones, commonly due to twisting or overuse.
• Fractures: Broken bones in or around the knee, often from trauma or falls.
• Tendon Injuries: Tendonitis or tendon tears from overuse or sudden impact.

2. Arthritis

• Osteoarthritis: Wear-and-tear arthritis that damages cartilage, leading to stiffness and pain.
• Rheumatoid Arthritis: An autoimmune condition causing inflammation and damage to the knee joint.
• Gout: Accumulation of uric acid crystals in the knee joint, causing intense pain and swelling.
• Septic Arthritis: Infection in the joint, leading to redness, swelling, and severe pain.

3. Overuse and Strain

• Bursitis: Inflammation of fluid-filled sacs (bursae) that cushion the knee joint, caused by repetitive movement or pressure.
• Patellar Tendonitis: Also known as “jumper’s knee,” common in athletes who overuse the knee.

4. Structural Problems

• Knee Cap Misalignment: Improper tracking of the kneecap, causing discomfort and limited motion.
• IT Band Syndrome: Irritation of the iliotibial band, a ligament that runs along the outside of the thigh.

5. Obesity: Excess weight puts additional strain on the knee joints, accelerating wear and tear.

6. Aging: Natural degeneration of cartilage and joint tissues over time, leading to stiffness and discomfort.

7. Infections or Diseases: Conditions like Lyme disease, lupus, or certain bone infections can cause knee pain as a symptom.

8. Lifestyle Factors: Sedentary habits, lack of exercise, or poor posture can weaken knee-supporting muscles and lead to pain.

Robotic-assisted knee replacement is an advanced surgical technique that uses robotic technology to assist the surgeon in performing precise and personalized knee replacement procedures. This approach enhances accuracy and outcomes, particularly for patients with unique knee structures or complex conditions.

How It Works:

1. Pre-Surgical Planning
   • Advanced imaging techniques, such as CT scans or MRIs, create a detailed 3D model of the patient’s knee.
   • The surgeon uses this model to plan the surgery, including the exact placement and alignment of the implant.
2. Intraoperative Guidance
   • During the procedure, a robotic arm or system guides the surgeon based on the pre-surgical plan.
   • The system provides real-time feedback, ensuring precise cuts and implant positioning.
   • The surgeon remains in full control, with the robot serving as a highly accurate tool.

Advantages of Robotic-Assisted Knee Replacement

• Enhanced Precision: The technology ensures optimal alignment of the knee implant, reducing wear and extending its lifespan.
• Reduced Pain: Precision in surgery minimizes tissue damage, leading to less post-operative pain.
• Faster Recovery: Smaller incisions and improved accuracy contribute to quicker healing and rehabilitation.
• Lower Risk of Complications: Improved alignment reduces the risk of complications like implant loosening or uneven wear.
• Personalized Surgery: Tailored to the patient’s unique anatomy for better outcomes and functionality.

Who Should opt for Robotic-Assisted Knee Replacement surgery?

Patients with advanced knee arthritis or joint damage.

Individuals with deformities or previous surgeries that make traditional approaches challenging.

Active individuals seeking long-lasting results and quicker recovery.

Procedure Overview

1. Preoperative Imaging
   • X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs are performed to confirm that the damage is confined to one compartment.
2. Surgical Process
   • A small incision is made.
   • The damaged cartilage and bone in the affected compartment are removed.
   • A metal and plastic implant is placed to restore smooth joint movement.
3. Tissue Preservation
   • Healthy cartilage, ligaments (such as the ACL and PCL), and other knee compartments remain untouched, maintaining the natural knee structure.

Procedure Overview

1. Pre-Surgical Planning:
   • Detailed imaging (X-rays, CT, or MRI) helps the surgeon create a personalized surgical plan.
2. Surgical Process:
   • Through the smaller incision, the surgeon removes damaged cartilage and bone from the knee joint.
   • A prosthetic implant is placed to restore joint function.
3. Tissue Protection:
   • Careful techniques minimize soft tissue damage, leading to quicker recovery.
4. Closure:
   • The incision is closed with sutures or staples, leaving a smaller scar.