Image Based Robotic Arm Assisted Arthroplasty - The Evidence is Growing

Description

In this engaging presentation, Andrew Toms, a passionate knee surgeon, discusses the current landscape and future of robotic-assisted surgery, with a keen focus on knee procedures. He begins by expressing gratitude and enthusiasm for the advancements in surgical technology, especially in knee surgery, setting the tone for a forward-thinking dialogue. Toms outlines his journey through the intricacies of evidence-based practice, asking critical questions about the levels of evidence needed for surgeons to adopt new technologies confidently and effectively.



He highlights a paradox within the medical community, pointing out that while trainees often seek high-level evidence, practicing consultants tend to disseminate lower-quality studies, posing a challenge for evidence-based practice. Using a mix of humor and anecdote, Toms delves into how surgeons are often attracted to new technologies with optimism but may lack the patience for long-term validation of their effectiveness.



With a strong emphasis on the significance of evidence, he refers to robust studies surrounding robotic-assisted surgeries, particularly the Mako robot, driving home the point that while partial knee replacement has substantial support, total knee and hip replacements are still evolving in terms of evidential backing. Throughout the presentation, he advocates for a shift in how medical professionals interpret and act on surgical evidence—suggesting that personal experiences and peer opinions often outweigh higher-level research in shaping decisions.



Toms further dissects the economic implications of robotic surgery, questioning whether cost analyses sufficiently encompass the initial investments needed for robotic platforms. He presents compelling data demonstrating improved outcomes associated with the Mako system, linking enhanced patient recovery with decreased opioid usage and quicker rehabilitation periods.



In closing, Toms emphasizes the need for surgeons to clarify their goals regarding surgical accuracy and precision and to embrace robotics not as the definitive answer but as a tool that may help achieve better surgical outcomes. His call to action is for tailored trials that underscore the symbiosis of surgical precision and robotics, shining a hopeful light on the future of orthopedic surgery.

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