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Orthopedic surgeons at Trinity Health have performed the region’s first total knee replacement using robotic technology. Brent Knudson, DO, performed the surgery January 11 using Trinity Health’s new Zimmer Biomet ROSA® Knee System.

ROSA, which stands for robotic surgical assistant, brings an extra measure of precision to total knee replacement, with features that help a surgeon assess soft tissues and refine bone resections to facilitate positioning of the knee implant during surgery. The result is a more balanced, custom-fitting knee design that produces a better outcome for patients.

“Getting a precise knee implant fit is important to a patient’s comfort and overall experience,” Dr. Knudson said. “ROSA Knee uses data collected before and during surgery to provide details related to a patient’s unique anatomy that are pertinent to the implant fit. By using that data to make more informed decisions during surgery, we can carry out a personalized surgical procedure and position the implant based on a patient’s individual needs.”

ROSA Knee uses a camera and optical trackers attached to a patient’s leg to know exactly where the knee is in space – much like a detailed global positioning system. If the leg moves even a fraction of an inch, the robot can tell and adjust accordingly. This helps ensure that the plan the surgeon puts into place is executed as intended.

“The decision to undergo a joint replacement can be a difficult one for patients,” said Cody Pehrson, MD, an orthopedic surgeon trained in the ROSA Knee system. “Robotically-assisted technology with its key benefits has the potential to make it an easier choice. It brings together robotic technology with industry-leading knee implants to help us personalize surgical procedures for patients.”

Both surgeons emphasized the robot doesn’t operate on its own, but moves only when the surgeon prompts it. The addition of robotic technology is one of several improvements Trinity Health Orthopedics has instituted to establish Trinity as the leader in same-day joint replacement surgery.

Information about the ROSA Knee System and how people with knee pain can benefit is available by calling Trinity Health Orthopedics at 701-857-5500.