October 2, 2019
Keio University Hospital
Keio University Hospital has introduced the state-of-the-art NAVIO TM (manufactured by Smith & Nephew) infrared-guided surgical robot for total knee arthroplasty. This robot is primarily used for total knee arthroplasty to treat conditions such as osteoarthritis of the knee, rheumatoid arthritis, osteonecrosis, and the aftereffects of sports injuries or trauma.
Until now, Keio University Hospital has performed high-precision total knee arthroplasty using computer navigation. However, the newly introduced surgical robot enables more precise work with even greater accuracy than conventional methods, reducing the potential for human error. By using this robot for high-precision surgery, we aim to provide knee joints that feel natural and can be used semi-permanently.
This robot uses an infrared camera to capture the positional information of the joint, accurately reading the shape of the joint surface and its movement. This reduces errors in bone cutting and achieves long-term stability of the implant. Furthermore, it allows for bone excavation while making fine adjustments to the balance of muscles and ligaments, which is graphed during surgery, to suit the individual patient. This results in well-balanced, natural-feeling knee movement. In particular, it makes it possible to preserve all cruciate ligaments, which had to be resected in conventional total knee arthroplasty, allowing for the recreation of a knee that can accommodate the active lifestyles of younger patients.
We are the fourth institution in Japan to introduce this robot. The natural-feeling knee recreated by this robot is expected to lead to smoother postoperative rehabilitation, an earlier return to society, and long-term stable use, thereby reducing the burden on patients.
Please see below for the full press release.