Orthopedic surgeon Richard Illgen, MD, completed the first robot-assisted total knee arthroplasty at UW Health's The American Center in Madison, Wis.
Here's what you should know.
1. After seeing outcome levels stagnate in total knee arthroplasty cases, Dr. Illgen used a robotic platform because of its proven ability to improve outcome rate in patients with partial knee and total hip replacement.
2. Studies suggest 10 percent to 20 percent of patients who undergo a manual total knee arthroplasty are dissatisfied with the treatment.
3. Dr. Illgen is hoping the robotic assisted platform will improve outcome rates, although a correlation between the two has yet to be established.
He is hoping the improvements in placement and the ability to control surgical variables will result in improved outcomes.