Technology helps improve joint replacement surgeries at Henry Ford Health

Hip surgery has been around for a long time but has seen remarkable improvements in the last decade.

Decades ago, hip surgery was as late as possible because the materials used didn’t last long and we didn’t want people to stay above their waist. As a result, many people simply live with the pain until they are considered a suitable candidate for joint replacement surgery.

Now, younger and younger people are getting joint replacements, including hips. This is because of the improvements made to the joint. In fact, it is also true that it is more possible to get a replacement than the old one.

Dr. Jason Davis of Henry Ford Health orthopedic surgeon. Uses robotic joint replacement systems to improve joint positioning accuracy. An initial CAT scan is used to create a three-dimensional model of the patient’s unique anatomy prior to surgery. Implants can be more precisely fitted and placed during surgery by a robotic device.

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It is important to note that robotics only provides accurate positioning. They do not do the work for the surgeon, the surgeon still controls every aspect of the operation. Robotic surgery has the potential to reduce some complications. Due to the increased precision, the fracture of the prostate hip after the operation was reduced, according to a study by Davis.

Ross Arseneau is a 59-year-old ultramarathoner. Several years ago, his hip became very painful to the point where it greatly affected his running. Eventually, over the course of two years, his hip weakened enough to require replacement and he decided to go to Davis because he knew he could use robotic assistance. After the surgery, Arsenault said he would do it again if necessary. In two and a half to three weeks he was able to ride his bike again and is training again for another ultramarathon.

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Note that it’s not just the hip that can be robotically assisted. There is a similar system that can be used for knee replacement surgeries.