Robotic vs. Conventional Knee & Hip Replacement
21 Aug 2026If you've been advised to consider knee or hip replacement, you may be wondering whether a robotic-assisted approach is right for you. Both conventional and robotic-assisted (Mako) replacement are established options. Dr. Rahul Puri at A-Star Specialist Clinic explains how they differ in planning, precision, and technique.
Robotic vs. Conventional Replacement at a Glance
| Aspect | Conventional Replacement | Robotic-Assisted Replacement (Mako) |
|---|---|---|
| Surgical planning | Based on standard instrumentation and surgeon judgment during surgery | Built on a personalized 3D model of the patient's own anatomy, planned before surgery |
| Precision | Manual bone cutting and implant alignment | Robotic arm assists within pre-planned boundaries for enhanced accuracy |
| Soft tissue handling | Relies on surgeon's manual technique to protect surrounding tissue | Real-time tracking helps limit disruption to healthy tissue and ligaments |
| Intraoperative adjustment | Plan is largely fixed once surgery begins | Plan can be fine-tuned in real time based on how the joint moves on the table |
| Suitability | Well-suited to a broad range of standard cases | Particularly valuable for complex anatomy or where maximum alignment precision is a priority |
Frequently Asked Questions
How is surgical planning different in robotic and conventional replacement?
Conventional replacement relies on standard instrumentation and the surgeon's judgment during surgery. Robotic-assisted replacement with the Mako system is planned before surgery on a personalized 3D model of your own anatomy.
Is robotic knee or hip replacement more precise?
In conventional surgery, bone cutting and implant alignment are done manually. In robotic-assisted surgery, the robotic arm assists within pre-planned boundaries for enhanced accuracy.
How does each approach handle the tissue around the joint?
Conventional surgery relies on the surgeon's manual technique to protect surrounding tissue. With the Mako system, real-time tracking helps limit disruption to healthy tissue and ligaments.
Can the surgical plan change during the operation?
In conventional replacement, the plan is largely fixed once surgery begins. With robotic assistance, the plan can be fine-tuned in real time based on how the joint moves on the table.
Which approach is right for me?
Conventional replacement is well-suited to a broad range of standard cases. Robotic assistance is particularly valuable for complex anatomy or where maximum alignment precision is a priority. The right choice depends on your individual clinical evaluation.
Book a consultation with Dr. Rahul Puri at A-Star Specialist Clinic to discuss your joint, your goals, and whether robotic or conventional replacement is the right next step.
