Discover the Future of Joint Replacement
HSS Florida | West Palm Beach
World-Class Orthopedics in South Florida
Experience the precision of robotic-assisted surgery—where innovation meets world-class orthopedic expertise. Learn how HSS surgeons in South Florida are using advanced robotic technology to improve accuracy, speed recovery, and personalize every hip and knee replacement.
Advancing Orthopedic Excellence in South Florida
At Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS), innovation meets expertise. As the nation’s leader in orthopedic care, HSS brings world-class precision and compassionate, personalized treatment to patients right here in South Florida. Our highly specialized surgeons offer the most advanced options available—from customized nonsurgical therapies to next-generation robotic-assisted hip and knee replacements—all designed to help you move with confidence and live without pain.
We understand that every patient, every joint, and every journey is unique. That’s why our approach to care spans the entire continuum—from accurate diagnosis to state-of-the-art treatment and guided recovery—ensuring the best possible outcomes and lasting mobility.
Ready to learn how robotic technology is transforming joint replacement surgery?
Explore expert insights below in “Ask the Surgeon: Answering Your Most Commonly Asked Questions About Robotic Hip and Knee Replacements” by J. Patrick Connors, M.D.
During hip and knee replacement surgery, the surgeon replaces worn-out bone surfaces with an artificial joint—also known as an implant or prosthesis. Regardless of the surgical method used, outcomes for these procedures are excellent for most patients seeking relief from painful and debilitating arthritis.
Over the last decade, surgical technology has advanced rapidly, and robotic-assisted hip and knee replacement has become increasingly popular. This innovation enhances the surgeon’s ability to plan, customize, and place implants with exceptional accuracy, based on each patient’s unique anatomy and movement patterns.
A recent national survey of nearly 600 adults found that many people believe robotic-assisted surgery leads to better results, less pain, and faster recovery—but only half truly understood what the robot does. The goal of this FAQ is to clear up common misconceptions and help you make informed decisions about your care.
Frequently Asked Questions
Question: What does the robot actually do during surgery?
Answer: Many patients imagine a robot performing surgery on its own—but that’s not the case. “Robotic-assisted” surgery simply means your surgeon is using a computer-guided tool to help plan and execute your joint replacement with extreme precision.
Here’s how it works:
- Optical trackers identify your unique anatomy in real time.
- A computer system synthesizes that data to create a customized surgical plan.
- Your surgeon performs every step of the operation and remains in full control.
- A robotic arm assists with the precise placement of your implants.
- At HSS, the robot never acts independently—your surgeon remains in control at all times.
Question: Is this a “minimally invasive” or arthroscopic procedure?
Answer: No. While certain joint procedures can be done arthroscopically, hip and knee replacements require open exposure to safely remove damaged bone and cartilage and fit new implants.
The term “minimally invasive” refers to a tissue-sparing surgical approach, not the size of the incision. Robotic surgery at HSS focuses on improving accuracy and minimizing unnecessary tissue trauma—but it is not the same as an arthroscopic or “keyhole” surgery.
Question: Is robotic-assisted surgery better than traditional surgery?
Answer: Both traditional and robotic-assisted hip and knee replacements achieve excellent long-term outcomes. Robotics can help surgeons achieve more consistent and precise implant alignment, which may be especially valuable in complex or less common anatomies.
However, current research has not yet proven that robotic assistance alone leads to less pain or faster recovery. The greatest predictor of success remains your surgeon’s skill and experience—qualities that define every HSS-trained orthopedic specialist.
Question: Am I a candidate for robotic-assisted surgery?
Answer: Nearly all patients who are eligible for hip or knee replacement are also candidates for robotic-assisted surgery. In certain cases—particularly among older adults with fragile bones—your surgeon may recommend a traditional approach to avoid minor risks related to sensor placement.
Your HSS surgeon will evaluate your health, goals, and anatomy to determine whether robotic assistance is the most appropriate option for you.
Question: What is recovery like after robotic hip or knee replacement?
Answer: Recovery after robotic-assisted surgery is comparable to traditional techniques. Most patients experience steady improvement over several months:
Hip replacement: Daily activities typically resume in 4–6 weeks, with full recovery within 3–6 months.
Knee replacement: Recovery often takes longer—up to 6–12 months—with physical therapy being key to success.
Some studies suggest robotic-assisted surgery may slightly reduce early soreness and tissue irritation, but individual recovery always depends on your health, activity level, and commitment to rehabilitation.
Question: What are the success rates?
Answer: Joint replacement remains one of the most successful procedures in all of medicine.
Hip replacements: 90–95% patient satisfaction one year after surgery.
Knee replacements: 80–90% patient satisfaction one year after surgery.
At HSS, our outcomes consistently exceed national averages, thanks to specialized surgical teams, advanced protocols, and evidence-based recovery pathways.
Question: The Bottom Line
Answer: Robotic-assisted surgery is an impressive advancement that enhances precision, but the most important factor in your success remains the expertise of your surgical team. At HSS Florida | West Palm Beach, patients benefit from world-class orthopedic care, advanced technology, and compassionate guidance from consultation through recovery.
Whether your joint replacement is performed with or without robotic assistance, your HSS team is dedicated to helping you move better, recover faster, and return to the activities you love.
Learn More or Schedule a Consultation
HSS Florida | West Palm Beach
300 Palm Beach Lakes Blvd, West Palm Beach, FL
(561) 437-0111
www.hss.edu/florida