Saint Michael's Perform First Robotic Knee Surgery

Saint Michael’s Medical Center marked a break through in robotic technology surgery last month as the chief of orthapeditics Dr. Richard Boiardo and a team of surgeons performed the first state’s first robotically assisted total knee replacement.

"This technology is a game changer," said Dr. Boiardo. "The system is highly accurate, creating a more precise alignment and fit that will feel better and last longer. That’s important, now that baby boomers are getting joint replacements at even younger ages."

Prior to surgery July 19, the first New Jersey patient to receive a total knee replacement, using the Pracim system, was confined to a wheelchair, unable to walk or straighten the knee.

"We obtained a full range of motion on the operative table,: said Boiardo. "The patient is now rehabbing aggressively and will be able to walk."

Saint Michael's Medical Center is among the few now using robotics in orthopedic surgery, which as an advancement, creates a better fit for the new joint and minimizes trauma to the surrounding bone and tissue.

Boairdo believes that a large percentage of orthopedic surgery will be done using robotic technology in the future but the technology will never replace the surgeon's hands and expertise.

The robotic system enables superior surgical accuracy and alignment in a surgery that even a minute of misalignment can harm the joint's future performance and longevity. It is a tool to improve surgical precision and patient outcomes, according to Boairdo, who has pioneered other advances in the field of joint replacement.

Praxim system eliminates the need to drive a rod into the bone to serve as an anchor, therefore reducing trauma to the surrounding tissue and bone and reducing the formation of potentially dangerous emboli. Boiardo said the advance makes the procedure safer.

The iBlock cutting guide, part of the Praxim System, is a computer-assisted technology that positions a bone-cutting device in the exact spot necessary, creating optimal alignment between the knee implant and surrounding bones.

Another benefit, Boiardo said, is patients using the system do not need additional MRI or CT scans, minimizing exposure to radiation as well as reducing time and costs.