As advancements in robotic-assisted knee replacement surgery continue to evolve, patients suffering from chronic knee pain can look forward to enjoying the relief that modern medical technology can provide. Jerry Ambrosia, M.D., an orthopedic surgeon at UAB St. Vincent’s, breaks down the most important things to consider before surgery.

Knee replacement technology keeps getting better

As do smartphones and other technology, knee implants continue to see advancements and updates every few years.

“I would liken it to the improvements we see in the automotive industry — with slight improvements in efficiency, horsepower and driving characteristics,” Ambrosia said.

He explains that these advancements in implant design and surgical tools have significantly improved patient outcomes. One of the most exciting developments is the use of computer and robotic-assisted knee replacements, especially beneficial for patients with significant joint deformities or previous hardware in the knee. These tools give surgeons a greater degree of precision, which can lead to better alignment and longer-lasting results.

Patients are getting back on their feet faster than ever

Hospital stays after knee replacement surgery have drastically shortened over the past few decades.

“Historically, patients stayed for weeks in the hospital after a total knee,” Ambrosia said. “When I was in residency about 10-15 years ago, folks stayed an average of two to three days. Now, it is more common for any otherwise reasonably healthy individual to go home the same day as their procedure.”

Many of these surgeries are taking place in an outpatient setting, allowing a patient to return to the comfort of home for the majority of their recovery. While outcomes for most patients remain strong, Ambrosia cautions that older or high-risk patients may need more careful post-operative planning to avoid complications once they are home.

Knee replacements can last decades — sometimes a lifetime

One of the biggest concerns for patients is how long their new joint will last.

“Total joints generally have had fairly good survivorship at the 20- to 30-year follow-ups — as high as 80 percent,” Ambrosia said.

Thanks to improvements in material science and implant durability, many patients who receive a well-done knee replacement in their 50s may never need another surgery. This makes the procedure a promising long-term solution for chronic knee pain and allows patients to consider knee replacement closer to the onset of their knee pain rather than putting surgery off for fear of an implant’s failing in their later years.

Preparation before surgery makes a big difference

What is done before surgery can greatly affect how well a person does afterward.

“The biggest predictor of post-op range of motion after a total knee is a patient’s pre-op range of motion,” Ambrosia said.

That means prehab — or engaging in regular stretching, strengthening and mobility exercises before surgery — can be a game-changer, especially for patients who already use assistive devices. Even a self-guided exercise routine can help improve recovery time, as well as the long-term outlook for managing arthritis symptoms.

Whether knee surgery is in the planning stages or options are being explored, understanding these four key points can help patients approach knee replacement with more confidence and clarity.