FirstHealth now offering robotics-assisted knee replacements

FirstHealth of the Carolinas has expanded knee replacement surgery options for its patients through the introduction of a robotics-assisted surgical system at Moore Regional Hospital – Hoke. 

The American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons estimates knee replacement surgeries are expected to increase a staggering 180 percent between now and 2030 in the United States.

David Casey, M.D., an HSS fellowship-trained hip and knee replacement surgeon with Pinehurst Surgical Clinic and FirstHealth Orthopaedics, said the new option is an exciting one for patients.

“No technology is a substitute for a skilled and experienced surgeon, and our orthopaedic department uses an evidence-based approach to develop the best surgical plan for each individual

patient,” Casey said in a press release. “For many knee replacement patients, this includes robotics.”

Robotic knee replacement surgery allows the surgeon to enhance the precision and maximize the individualization of the surgery. Tracking devices placed around the knee joint communicate with the robot for the surgeon and the robot to coordinate control of the surgical tools together.

These tools prevent deviation outside the alignment of the surgeon’s plan. The robotic tools allow the surgeon to assess the stability and alignment of the knee and make any necessary adjustments before the surgery is complete.

Emerging evidence indicates that robotic-assisted knee replacement surgery has the capacity to allow more precision in surgeries, and in turn this may lead to better results, with the patient experiencing less pain and better post-op function, Casey explained.

Joint replacement surgery at FirstHealth is usually done with spinal anesthesia and a nerve block around the joint, which is preferred in place of general anesthesia when possible. 

New robotic technology combined with these anesthesia techniques helps to provide patients with:

•  Quicker, smoother recoveries
•  Reduced need for narcotics
•  The ability to regain function faster
•  The customization of surgical plans to each individual patient

“We know that some of the biggest concerns for patients considering knee replacement are fears

of the procedure itself and recovery time. Our comprehensive joint replacement program

addresses both concerns,” Casey said in a press release. “Our main goals in performing joint replacements are to help people optimize their quality of life and reduce their pain. Our comprehensive program helps us to achieve those goals and get patients home sooner. The best operation is the one that fixes your problem and lasts your lifetime.”

FirstHealth offers a full range of diagnostic imaging, the latest treatments for orthopaedic diseases and conditions, numerous outpatient rehabilitation clinics, and six fitness centers to help you get back to the life you enjoy. The orthopaedic surgeons at Pinehurst Surgical Clinic provide a full range of services and many also specialize in one or several areas such as the foot, hand, shoulder, spine, hip or knee or sports medicine.

For more information or to contact us about scheduling an appointment, call (800) 213-3284.