Description
In this video transcript, Ed Davis, a co-chief investigator for the RACER studies, provides a comprehensive overview of two major studies focusing on robot-assisted surgeries for knee and hip replacements. He outlines the collaborative efforts involving co-investigators such as Andy Metcalfe and Peter Wall, and emphasizes the support from the NIHR's HTA program, which funded the knee study considerably.
The main study, RACER knee, is a pragmatic randomized controlled trial comparing robot-assisted total knee replacements with conventional surgeries, where patient and assessor blinding is maintained through sham incisions. Davis highlights the importance of various outcomes, particularly the 'forgotten joint score' at 12 months, and discusses how the study aims to address whether robotic assistance can improve functional outcomes for patients and the associated health economics for the NHS.
Davis also touches upon recruitment progress, acknowledging challenges due to COVID-19 but noting ongoing patient recruitment efforts across multiple hospitals. The follow-up study, RACER hip, shares a similar design and goals, indicating continual interest in understanding robotic implications for hip replacements.
Throughout the presentation, he addresses potential questions and concerns raised about the studies, including issues of surgical techniques, CT planning biases in conventional groups, and recruitment challenges influenced by the capacity of participating surgeons. He concludes with an invitation for participation in future robotics studies, indicating a positive outlook for enhancing surgical practices through technology.