Memorial Publio Cordón Hospital successfully performs its first robot-assisted knee replacement operation
The Publio Cordón Memorial Hospital has successfully performed its first robot-assisted knee replacement operation, marking a milestone in the development of advanced orthopaedic surgery at the centre. The procedure was carried out by Dr Carlos Encinas, head of the hospital’s Knee Unit, who emphasises that this technology “represents a very significant advance because it allows the surgery to be tailored to each patient’s actual anatomy, improves the precision of the procedure and promotes a faster functional recovery”.
The introduction of robotic surgery for knee replacement represents a step forward in the treatment of advanced osteoarthritis and other degenerative joint conditions. As Dr Encinas explains, “every knee has its own unique characteristics: not only in terms of the shape of the bone, but also the alignment of the limb, the condition of the ligaments and the degree of joint wear. Robotic assistance allows us to take all these factors into account and plan the procedure with an extraordinary level of detail”.
Robotic technology for more precise and personalised surgery
Robot-assisted surgery enables the specialist to plan the procedure on an individual basis, adapting it to each patient’s specific anatomy. Before and during the procedure, the system facilitates the analysis of bone structure, limb alignment, ligament balance and the biomechanical characteristics of the knee – all fundamental aspects for achieving correct implant placement.
During the operation, robotic technology provides real-time information and assists the surgeon in making bone cuts and positioning the prosthesis. This assistance enables the surgeon to work with a high degree of precision, reduce unwanted variations and tailor the surgery to the patient’s specific needs.
“This is a technique that allows us to be more precise, more accurate and more reproducible,” says Dr Encinas. “Every knee is different, and robot-assisted surgery helps us adapt the prosthesis to the patient’s actual anatomy, seeking the best possible balance for the joint and a faster return to normal function.”
Advanced knee osteoarthritis: when a prosthesis may be necessary
Knee osteoarthritis is a degenerative condition caused by the progressive deterioration of articular cartilage, the tissue that covers the bone surfaces and allows the joint to move smoothly. When this cartilage wears away, friction between the bones increases, which can lead to pain, inflammation, stiffness, progressive deformity and loss of mobility.
In advanced stages, everyday activities such as walking, climbing stairs, getting up from a chair or standing for long periods may be severely restricted. “Patients who end up requiring a knee replacement have usually already gone through a long period of pain and functional limitation,” notes Dr Encinas. “Our aim is not merely to replace a damaged joint, but to restore mobility, reduce pain and significantly improve their quality of life.”
In the early stages of osteoarthritis, treatment is usually based on conservative measures, such as physiotherapy, therapeutic exercise, weight management, analgesic or anti-inflammatory medication, and injections. However, when joint deterioration progresses and these alternatives no longer provide an adequate response, joint replacement surgery may become the most effective option for restoring function.
The surgeon: key to planning and performing the procedure
Robotic technology does not replace the surgeon, but acts as a support tool that enhances their capacity for planning, control and precision during the operation. Medical judgement, surgical experience and anatomical knowledge remain crucial for tailoring each procedure to the patient’s actual needs.
“Robotic technology does not replace the surgeon; on the contrary, it enhances their decision-making ability,” emphasises the head of the Knee Unit. “Medical judgement, surgical experience and anatomical knowledge remain fundamental. The robot provides us with an extremely precise tool to carry out the planned procedure with the greatest possible accuracy.”
One of the most significant aspects of this technique is the ability to customise the placement of the implant. Correct alignment of the prosthesis, ligamentous balance and adaptation to each patient’s biomechanics are key factors in achieving a stable, functional and comfortable knee following surgery.
“With a knee prosthesis, even small differences in degrees can affect the functional outcome,” adds Dr Encinas. “That is why working with technology that allows us to adjust the position of the implant with such precision is particularly important. We aim for the prosthesis to integrate as naturally as possible into the mechanics of the patient’s knee.”
Functional recovery and innovation for the benefit of the patient
Key benefits of robot-assisted knee replacement surgery include greater precision in implant placement, optimised joint alignment, improved pre-operative and intra-operative planning, and a potentially faster post-operative recovery. All of this can contribute to more efficient rehabilitation, improved mobility and high patient satisfaction.
The first procedure carried out at the Publio Cordón Memorial Hospital went well, with excellent initial results and the patient making a good recovery. For the medical team, this first case represents a significant step forward in the hospital’s strategy to incorporate state-of-the-art technology into high-precision surgical procedures.
“The results achieved in this first operation have been excellent and confirm the value of incorporating tools that help us to be more precise, safer and more personalised,” says Dr Encinas. “It is a very important step for our Knee Unit and for the patients who can benefit from this type of advanced surgery.”
With this milestone, Memorial Publio Cordón Hospital reinforces its commitment to modern orthopaedics, based on innovation, medical expertise and patient-centred care. The introduction of robotic surgery for knee replacement broadens the range of treatment options for people with advanced joint conditions and paves the way for increasingly personalised, precise surgery focused on functional recovery.
“We want patients to know that there are advanced solutions for conditions that significantly affect their daily lives,” concludes Dr Encinas. “Advanced knee osteoarthritis does not just cause pain; it limits independence, physical activity and quality of life. With the right indication and precise technology, we can offer highly satisfactory results.”
