Cayuga Medical Center’s orthopedic surgeons are using a robotic system called CORI for knee replacements and surgeries to fix previous knee replacements. This system helps ensure the new knee joint fits each patient perfectly and leads to better results.
The CORI system uses cameras, special tools and smart computer programs to make 3D images of the knee. This shortens surgery time compared to older systems used at the hospital since 2019. Both CORI and the older system, NAVIO, are made by Smith & Nephew, a company that creates joint replacements and other medical products.
“This robot is a big step forward for Cayuga Health, bringing the latest medical technology to our community,” said Dr. Deidre Blake, who leads the knee and orthopedic surgery program at the hospital.
Surgeons at Cayuga Medical Center use a special hand-held device prior to surgery to gather information about each patient’s knee procedure. This information is used to create a 3D model of the knee joint. Unlike other robotic systems that need CT scans (which use radiation) or MRIs (which may not be covered by insurance), the CORI system doesn’t need these extra steps. This makes the process easier, more precise and accomplished at a lower cost.
Robotic technology is making knee replacements and surgeries to modify a previous joint replacement more accurate than ever. This level of precision is usually found only at large hospitals far from Ithaca.
“This technology allows more people in our community to have knee replacements done right here at home,” said Dr. Blake. “Our knee surgery program has a great track record, just as good or better than many big hospitals. And now, with this new technology, we can offer even better care to our local patients.”
While the term “robotic surgery” might make people think robots are doing the surgery, Dr. Blake stresses the doctor is always in control. The robotic system helps guide the surgery and adds safety, but the doctor makes all the decisions.
The robotic knee replacement program has several key benefits:
- Planning before surgery: Doctors use computer models to plan the surgery, making sure the new knee will fit and work well. During surgery, the computer shows real-time information to make precise adjustments.
- Less invasive surgery: Smaller cuts and advanced techniques mean less blood loss and less damage to muscles, nerves and other tissues, which helps patients heal faster.
- Better view: The CORI system gives the surgeon a clear, real-time view of the surgical area. The computer updates the view quickly, so the surgeon can see exactly what’s happening during the procedure.
- Accuracy and safety: The doctor controls the robotic tool’s cutting part. The tool stops if it moves outside the planned area.
- Better bone preparation: The system removes damaged bone accurately, which makes the surgery faster.
- Customized implant placement: The system uses software to adjust the implant’s position based on the patient’s knee joint and body.
When knees are made to fit each individual patient and placed with great accuracy, patients can often walk without pain for the first time in years. These new knees also last a long time, with over 90% lasting 10 years or more. Studies show that robotic knee surgery is more accurate than traditional surgery and less likely to fail, which means fewer need for follow-up surgeries.
Dr. Blake, along with Dr. Ashley Anderson and Dr. Benjamin Donahue, are the certified knee surgeons at Cayuga Orthopedics who use the hospital’s robotic systems. Their skill, combined with this advanced technology, ensures patients get the best knee care close to home.
Deidre Blake, MD, is board-certified orthopedic surgeon who received her medical degree from SUNY Upstate Medical University, her residency at URMC Strong Hospital and her fellowship training in adult joint reconstruction at Weill Cornell’s Hospital for Special Surgery. She serves on the medical staff of Cayuga Medical Center and is the medical director of Cayuga Orthopedics, 16 Brentwood Drive, Suite A, Ithaca, (607) 272-7000.
Members of the editorial and news staff of USA TODAY Network were not involved in the creation of this content.
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