Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for Robotic Surgery

Carolina Pines' robotic surgery platform is changing the experience of surgery for both surgeons and their patients. 

• What is a robotic surgical system? How does it work?

  The robotic surgical system is a tool that utilizes advanced, robotic technologies to assist your surgeon with your surgery. It does not act on its own and its movements are controlled by your surgeon. Your surgeon is still in the operating room the entire time and is making all of the decisions throughout your surgery.

  
  During your procedure, the robot utilizes a camera and optical trackers attached to your leg to know exactly where your knee is in space. Think of it like a very detailed global positioning system (GPS) that you might use in your car. If your leg moves even a fraction of an inch, the robot can tell and adjusts accordingly. This helps ensure that the plan your surgeon put into place is executed as intended. Throughout your surgery, the robot provides your surgeon with data about your knee. This information, combined with your surgeon’s skill, helps them know how to position your implant based on your unique anatomy.

• What are the benefits for patients?

  Robotic-assisted surgery may provide the following benefits:

  • Smaller incisions with reduced scarring and blood loss
  • Less post-operative pain
  • Shorter hospital stay and recovery period
  • Quicker return to daily activities

  Disclaimer- Individual results may vary. Your results will depend on your personal circumstances. 

• Is robotic surgery safe?

  Robotic-assisted knee replacement is a relatively safe procedure; however, as with any surgery, there are risks and complications that could occur.

  Talk with your doctor about all treatment options, as well as the risks and benefits of each. If surgery is the option you choose, talk with your doctor about whether robotic surgery is right for you. Your doctor's training; experience and judgment are important factors to consider when making this decision.

• Is robotic surgery covered by insurance?

  Surgery with the robotic surgical system is a type of minimally invasive surgery. Most insurance plans include robotic surgery in their minimally invasive coverage. Major insurance plans, including United, Aetna and Blue Cross Blue Shield, cover robotic surgery. Check with your insurance provider to confirm coverage.

• Is robotic surgery right for me?

  Patients should talk to their doctor to decide if robotic surgery is right for them. Other options may be available and appropriate. Only a doctor can determine whether robotic surgery is appropriate for a patient's situation. Patients and doctors should review all available information on both non-surgical and surgical options in order to make an informed decision.