If you're like most people, you work too much, don't eat quite right and probably don't exercise enough. If you have achy, creaky joints as a result, you may also be one of the 21 million Americans who suffer from osteoarthritis, the most common form of arthritis.
Knees often bear the brunt for arthritis sufferers, especially those who may be overweight. If you are one of the nearly 15 million who suffer from arthritis of the knee, and diet, exercise and non-surgical treatments fail, you may be faced with joint replacement.
New innovations now promise less invasive, less time-consuming procedures in some cases. One procedure, partial knee replacement, is now being performed with the aid of surgical robotics.
Nearly a dozen hospitals in the U.S. offer partial replacement with this technology from Mako Surgical Corp., and more hospitals are in line to offer it. Advantages of this minimally-invasive technology include:
- Preservation of more bone and soft tissue
- Reduced recovery time and reduced pain
- Better range of motion after recovery
"I do believe these types of technologies will be used in other surgeries like for ACLs and total joint replacements, ultimately, because they offer advantages in terms of precision," said Dr. Nick DiNubile, an orthopedic surgeon specializing in knee disorders, a best-selling author and team consultant for the Philadelphia 76ers.
"Robotics revolutionized prostate surgery, for instance. While technology won't replace a surgeon's guidance and judgment, these innovations are the wave of the future, and more surgeons will be using them."
Are you suffering from arthritis? Find out more:
- Preventing Arthritis
- When to Call a Doctor
- Treating Your Arthritis
- Should You Have Knee Replacement Surgery?
Share your thoughts here about your experiences with arthritis.
