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Robotic Surgery

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Robotic-assisted joint replacement is one of the most important recent advances in knee and hip surgery. For many patients, the idea of “robotic surgery” can feel both exciting and slightly unfamiliar — so understanding what it is, how it works, and whether it is right for you is essential.

My role is to guide you through this with clear, balanced information.

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Robotic-assisted joint replacement is one of the most important recent advances in knee and hip surgery.

For many patients, the idea of “robotic surgery” can feel both exciting and slightly unfamiliar — so understanding what it is, how it works, and whether it is right for you is essential.

My role is to guide you through this with clear, balanced information.

Read more

other treatment

Robotic systems do not perform the surgery;

instead, they help me plan and execute the operation with an exceptionally high level of accuracy. When combined with my surgical expertise at Guy’s & St Thomas’ and my background as a physiotherapist, robotic technology can help create a more personalised, stable, and natural-feeling joint replacement.

I currently use the ROSA robotic system at Sussex Premier Health and The Horder Centre, enhancing our position as a leading UK centre for joint reconstruction.

Robotic surgery can support:

  • More precise implant positioning

  • Personalised alignment based on your anatomy and movement patterns

  • Reduced soft-tissue disruption

  • Potential for improved balance, stability, and long-term comfort

  • Consistency and accuracy across different knee and hip replacement procedures

Robotic assistance is not necessary for every patient, but when used appropriately, it can help achieve a joint that feels more natural and functions more reliably over time.

other treatment

How Robotic Surgery Works

Robotic systems combine:

  • Real-time imaging or intraoperative mapping of your knee or hip

  • Computerised surgical planning tools

  • A robotic arm or guided instrumentation to help position implants safely and accurately

  • Feedback and stability assessment to tailor the replacement to your soft tissues

This approach allows the surgery to be customised to your anatomy, ligament tension, and functional alignment — something particularly valuable in knee replacement where alignment philosophies continue to evolve.

Robotic technology supports, rather than replaces, surgical judgement.
Your recovery still depends on a combination of precise surgery, personalised rehabilitation, and close follow-up — all areas in which my dual background helps ensure a smooth post-operative journey.

other treatment

FAQs

Is robotic joint replacement better than traditional surgery?

Not necessarily “better,” but often more precise. Robotics enhances planning and accuracy, which may lead to: • Improved alignment • Better stability • More natural knee or hip motion • Potentially longer implant lifespan However, excellent outcomes are also achieved using traditional techniques. The key is selecting the right approach for your anatomy and goals.

Does the robot perform the operation?

No — the robot does not operate on you. It acts as a highly accurate guidance system, allowing me to place the implants with precision while maintaining full control of the surgery.

Is robotic surgery right for everyone?

Not always. Robotic techniques are particularly helpful for: • knee arthritis where personalised alignment is important • patients with unusual anatomy • partial knee replacements • patients seeking the most technically precise approach • complex or revision cases in selected circumstances During your consultation, we’ll discuss whether robotic assistance is likely to benefit your specific situation.

Will robotic surgery change my recovery?

Recovery is still guided by: • good surgical technique • structured physiotherapy • your general health • your activity goals Some patients notice improved early confidence due to better soft-tissue balance, but the long-term rehabilitation principles remain the same.

Is robotic surgery available at all hospitals?

No. Currently, I perform: • ROSA robotic knee replacement at Sussex Premier Health and The Horder Centre

Is robotic surgery safe?

Yes — robotic systems undergo rigorous testing and are widely used internationally.

Is robotic joint replacement better than traditional surgery?

Not necessarily “better,” but often more precise. Robotics enhances planning and accuracy, which may lead to: • Improved alignment • Better stability • More natural knee or hip motion • Potentially longer implant lifespan However, excellent outcomes are also achieved using traditional techniques. The key is selecting the right approach for your anatomy and goals.

Does the robot perform the operation?

No — the robot does not operate on you. It acts as a highly accurate guidance system, allowing me to place the implants with precision while maintaining full control of the surgery.

Is robotic surgery right for everyone?

Not always. Robotic techniques are particularly helpful for: • knee arthritis where personalised alignment is important • patients with unusual anatomy • partial knee replacements • patients seeking the most technically precise approach • complex or revision cases in selected circumstances During your consultation, we’ll discuss whether robotic assistance is likely to benefit your specific situation.

Will robotic surgery change my recovery?

Recovery is still guided by: • good surgical technique • structured physiotherapy • your general health • your activity goals Some patients notice improved early confidence due to better soft-tissue balance, but the long-term rehabilitation principles remain the same.

Is robotic surgery available at all hospitals?

No. Currently, I perform: • ROSA robotic knee replacement at Sussex Premier Health and The Horder Centre

Is robotic surgery safe?

Yes — robotic systems undergo rigorous testing and are widely used internationally.

Is robotic joint replacement better than traditional surgery?

Not necessarily “better,” but often more precise. Robotics enhances planning and accuracy, which may lead to: • Improved alignment • Better stability • More natural knee or hip motion • Potentially longer implant lifespan However, excellent outcomes are also achieved using traditional techniques. The key is selecting the right approach for your anatomy and goals.

Does the robot perform the operation?

No — the robot does not operate on you. It acts as a highly accurate guidance system, allowing me to place the implants with precision while maintaining full control of the surgery.

Is robotic surgery right for everyone?

Not always. Robotic techniques are particularly helpful for: • knee arthritis where personalised alignment is important • patients with unusual anatomy • partial knee replacements • patients seeking the most technically precise approach • complex or revision cases in selected circumstances During your consultation, we’ll discuss whether robotic assistance is likely to benefit your specific situation.

Will robotic surgery change my recovery?

Recovery is still guided by: • good surgical technique • structured physiotherapy • your general health • your activity goals Some patients notice improved early confidence due to better soft-tissue balance, but the long-term rehabilitation principles remain the same.

Is robotic surgery available at all hospitals?

No. Currently, I perform: • ROSA robotic knee replacement at Sussex Premier Health and The Horder Centre

Is robotic surgery safe?

Yes — robotic systems undergo rigorous testing and are widely used internationally.

Treatment options

Personalised Joint Replacement
Keyhole (Arthroscopic) Knee Surgery
Non-Surgical Treatments

other treatment

Personalised Joint Replacement

Every hip and knee is different — and so is every patient. Personalised joint replacement focuses on tailoring the procedure to your anatomy, movement patterns, soft-tissue balance, and lifestyle goals, rather than using a one-size-fits-all approach.

For many people, joint replacement surgery is a major life decision, and understanding the different options is important. My role is to guide you through this clearly and confidently.

With experience in kinematic alignment, functional alignment, ligament-guided techniques, I ensure that your operation is planned and executed around what matters most: a stable, comfortable, natural-feeling joint that supports your long-term mobility.

Personalised joint replacement can be used in:

  • Total knee replacement

  • Partial knee replacement

  • Total hip replacement

  • Robotic-assisted procedures

The goal is simple: a joint that feels like it belongs to you.

What Makes a Joint Replacement “Personalised”?

Personalisation can involve one or more of the following:

  1. Detailed Pre-operative Planning

Using X-rays, long-leg alignment films, CT scans (when needed), or digital templating to evaluate your unique anatomy.

  1. Understanding Your Natural Alignment

Some people are naturally more bow-legged or knock-kneed. Recreating this may feel more natural than forcing a textbook-neutral position.

  1. Ligament-Guided Balancing

Balancing the ligaments to ensure stability throughout the full arc of motion — not just in one position.

  1. Robotic or Computer-Enhanced Precision

Robotics can help execute the personalised plan with exceptional accuracy.

  1. Tailoring Implant Choice

Selecting implants that match your bone shape, activity level, and long-term goals.

This combination supports a joint replacement that feels stable, smooth, and more “normal” during everyday activities.

Benefits of Personalised Joint Replacement

  • More natural joint movement

  • Improved stability and balance

  • Better match to your normal walking pattern

  • Reduced risk of over-tight or over-loose ligaments

  • High patient satisfaction

  • Potential for improved longevity

Personalisation does not mean “experimental.” These techniques are evidence-based and increasingly used in advanced orthopaedic centres.

FAQs

Is personalised joint replacement better than traditional techniques?

For many patients, yes — because it aligns the reconstruction with your unique anatomy. However, not everyone needs a personalised technique, and some patients benefit from more traditional mechanical alignment. I help you understand which approach suits your knee or hip best.

Is this the same as robotic surgery?

Not exactly. Robotic surgery is one tool that can help deliver personalised alignment, but personalisation can also be achieved through: • ligament balancing • advanced planning • careful intraoperative assessment • computer-assisted tools • an experienced surgeon tailoring the procedure Think of robotics as precision equipment — and personalisation as the strategy behind how your joint is rebuilt.

Will personalised surgery improve how the joint feels?

For many patients, yes. Studies show that personalised alignment techniques can improve kneeling, stair-climbing, early confidence, and overall satisfaction — particularly in knee replacement where soft-tissue balance is critical.

Does a personalised approach affect recovery?

It can help recovery feel more natural and reduce the feeling of tightness or imbalance after surgery. Rehabilitation principles remain the same, but your recovery plan is tailored to your specific needs and goals.

Is personalised joint replacement suitable for hips as well as knees?

Absolutely. Hip replacements can also be personalised based on: • pelvic tilt and spinopelvic dynamics • leg length • version (rotational) alignment • soft-tissue tension • impingement-free range of motion This is particularly important in active patients or those with prior spine surgery.

Does personalised surgery cost more?

Some technologies, such as robotic assistance or patient-specific instruments, may have additional costs in private settings. However, many aspects of personalisation come from surgical expertise, planning, and technique — not equipment.

Is personalised joint replacement better than traditional techniques?

For many patients, yes — because it aligns the reconstruction with your unique anatomy. However, not everyone needs a personalised technique, and some patients benefit from more traditional mechanical alignment. I help you understand which approach suits your knee or hip best.

Is this the same as robotic surgery?

Not exactly. Robotic surgery is one tool that can help deliver personalised alignment, but personalisation can also be achieved through: • ligament balancing • advanced planning • careful intraoperative assessment • computer-assisted tools • an experienced surgeon tailoring the procedure Think of robotics as precision equipment — and personalisation as the strategy behind how your joint is rebuilt.

Will personalised surgery improve how the joint feels?

For many patients, yes. Studies show that personalised alignment techniques can improve kneeling, stair-climbing, early confidence, and overall satisfaction — particularly in knee replacement where soft-tissue balance is critical.

Does a personalised approach affect recovery?

It can help recovery feel more natural and reduce the feeling of tightness or imbalance after surgery. Rehabilitation principles remain the same, but your recovery plan is tailored to your specific needs and goals.

Is personalised joint replacement suitable for hips as well as knees?

Absolutely. Hip replacements can also be personalised based on: • pelvic tilt and spinopelvic dynamics • leg length • version (rotational) alignment • soft-tissue tension • impingement-free range of motion This is particularly important in active patients or those with prior spine surgery.

Does personalised surgery cost more?

Some technologies, such as robotic assistance or patient-specific instruments, may have additional costs in private settings. However, many aspects of personalisation come from surgical expertise, planning, and technique — not equipment.

FAQs

Is personalised joint replacement better than traditional techniques?

For many patients, yes — because it aligns the reconstruction with your unique anatomy. However, not everyone needs a personalised technique, and some patients benefit from more traditional mechanical alignment. I help you understand which approach suits your knee or hip best.

Is this the same as robotic surgery?

Not exactly. Robotic surgery is one tool that can help deliver personalised alignment, but personalisation can also be achieved through: • ligament balancing • advanced planning • careful intraoperative assessment • computer-assisted tools • an experienced surgeon tailoring the procedure Think of robotics as precision equipment — and personalisation as the strategy behind how your joint is rebuilt.

Will personalised surgery improve how the joint feels?

For many patients, yes. Studies show that personalised alignment techniques can improve kneeling, stair-climbing, early confidence, and overall satisfaction — particularly in knee replacement where soft-tissue balance is critical.

Does a personalised approach affect recovery?

It can help recovery feel more natural and reduce the feeling of tightness or imbalance after surgery. Rehabilitation principles remain the same, but your recovery plan is tailored to your specific needs and goals.

Is personalised joint replacement suitable for hips as well as knees?

Absolutely. Hip replacements can also be personalised based on: • pelvic tilt and spinopelvic dynamics • leg length • version (rotational) alignment • soft-tissue tension • impingement-free range of motion This is particularly important in active patients or those with prior spine surgery.

Does personalised surgery cost more?

Some technologies, such as robotic assistance or patient-specific instruments, may have additional costs in private settings. However, many aspects of personalisation come from surgical expertise, planning, and technique — not equipment.

Is personalised joint replacement better than traditional techniques?

For many patients, yes — because it aligns the reconstruction with your unique anatomy. However, not everyone needs a personalised technique, and some patients benefit from more traditional mechanical alignment. I help you understand which approach suits your knee or hip best.

Is this the same as robotic surgery?

Not exactly. Robotic surgery is one tool that can help deliver personalised alignment, but personalisation can also be achieved through: • ligament balancing • advanced planning • careful intraoperative assessment • computer-assisted tools • an experienced surgeon tailoring the procedure Think of robotics as precision equipment — and personalisation as the strategy behind how your joint is rebuilt.

Will personalised surgery improve how the joint feels?

For many patients, yes. Studies show that personalised alignment techniques can improve kneeling, stair-climbing, early confidence, and overall satisfaction — particularly in knee replacement where soft-tissue balance is critical.

Does a personalised approach affect recovery?

It can help recovery feel more natural and reduce the feeling of tightness or imbalance after surgery. Rehabilitation principles remain the same, but your recovery plan is tailored to your specific needs and goals.

Is personalised joint replacement suitable for hips as well as knees?

Absolutely. Hip replacements can also be personalised based on: • pelvic tilt and spinopelvic dynamics • leg length • version (rotational) alignment • soft-tissue tension • impingement-free range of motion This is particularly important in active patients or those with prior spine surgery.

Does personalised surgery cost more?

Some technologies, such as robotic assistance or patient-specific instruments, may have additional costs in private settings. However, many aspects of personalisation come from surgical expertise, planning, and technique — not equipment.

other treatment

Keyhole (Arthroscopic) Knee Surgery

Keyhole (arthroscopic) knee surgery is a minimally invasive technique that uses a small camera and fine instruments to diagnose and treat conditions inside the knee. For many patients — particularly those with mechanical symptoms such as locking, catching, instability, or painful meniscal tears — arthroscopy can provide rapid relief and restore confidence in movement.

Not all knee problems respond to keyhole surgery, particularly when arthritis is advanced. My role is to help you understand whether arthroscopy is likely to help your specific symptoms, and whether alternative treatments may offer better long-term benefits.

Arthroscopy is commonly used to treat:

  • Meniscal (cartilage) tears

  • Loose bodies (fragments of cartilage or bone)

  • Early cartilage injuries

  • Soft-tissue impingement inside the joint

Recovery is typically quicker than open surgery, with most patients returning to normal daily activities within days to weeks, depending on the procedure.

FAQs

Is keyhole surgery suitable for arthritis?

Not usually. Arthroscopy has limited benefit in moderate to severe arthritis, where the joint surfaces are already worn. In these cases, physiotherapy, injections, or joint replacement may be more effective. I will guide you toward the option most likely to improve your symptoms.

How long is the recovery after arthroscopy?

Recovery varies by procedure, but most patients: • Walk the same day • Return to office-based work within a few days • Resume light exercise within 2–3 weeks • Follow structured physiotherapy to restore strength and stability

Is arthroscopy painful?

There is some soreness for a few days, but early mobilisation and appropriate pain management help you recover quickly.

Can arthroscopy prevent future arthritis?

It may treat the underlying cause of mechanical symptoms, but it does not reverse existing arthritis. A detailed assessment allows us to set realistic expectations and plan long-term joint health strategies.

Will I need physiotherapy afterwards?

Yes — targeted rehabilitation is essential to restore confidence, strength, and knee control.

Is keyhole surgery suitable for arthritis?

Not usually. Arthroscopy has limited benefit in moderate to severe arthritis, where the joint surfaces are already worn. In these cases, physiotherapy, injections, or joint replacement may be more effective. I will guide you toward the option most likely to improve your symptoms.

How long is the recovery after arthroscopy?

Recovery varies by procedure, but most patients: • Walk the same day • Return to office-based work within a few days • Resume light exercise within 2–3 weeks • Follow structured physiotherapy to restore strength and stability

Is arthroscopy painful?

There is some soreness for a few days, but early mobilisation and appropriate pain management help you recover quickly.

Can arthroscopy prevent future arthritis?

It may treat the underlying cause of mechanical symptoms, but it does not reverse existing arthritis. A detailed assessment allows us to set realistic expectations and plan long-term joint health strategies.

Will I need physiotherapy afterwards?

Yes — targeted rehabilitation is essential to restore confidence, strength, and knee control.

FAQs

Is keyhole surgery suitable for arthritis?

Not usually. Arthroscopy has limited benefit in moderate to severe arthritis, where the joint surfaces are already worn. In these cases, physiotherapy, injections, or joint replacement may be more effective. I will guide you toward the option most likely to improve your symptoms.

How long is the recovery after arthroscopy?

Recovery varies by procedure, but most patients: • Walk the same day • Return to office-based work within a few days • Resume light exercise within 2–3 weeks • Follow structured physiotherapy to restore strength and stability

Is arthroscopy painful?

There is some soreness for a few days, but early mobilisation and appropriate pain management help you recover quickly.

Can arthroscopy prevent future arthritis?

It may treat the underlying cause of mechanical symptoms, but it does not reverse existing arthritis. A detailed assessment allows us to set realistic expectations and plan long-term joint health strategies.

Will I need physiotherapy afterwards?

Yes — targeted rehabilitation is essential to restore confidence, strength, and knee control.

Is keyhole surgery suitable for arthritis?

Not usually. Arthroscopy has limited benefit in moderate to severe arthritis, where the joint surfaces are already worn. In these cases, physiotherapy, injections, or joint replacement may be more effective. I will guide you toward the option most likely to improve your symptoms.

How long is the recovery after arthroscopy?

Recovery varies by procedure, but most patients: • Walk the same day • Return to office-based work within a few days • Resume light exercise within 2–3 weeks • Follow structured physiotherapy to restore strength and stability

Is arthroscopy painful?

There is some soreness for a few days, but early mobilisation and appropriate pain management help you recover quickly.

Can arthroscopy prevent future arthritis?

It may treat the underlying cause of mechanical symptoms, but it does not reverse existing arthritis. A detailed assessment allows us to set realistic expectations and plan long-term joint health strategies.

Will I need physiotherapy afterwards?

Yes — targeted rehabilitation is essential to restore confidence, strength, and knee control.

other treatment

Non-Surgical Treatments

Non-surgical management forms the foundation of care for many hip and knee conditions. Even if surgery is considered later, these treatments can reduce pain, improve function, and support long-term joint health.

My combined physiotherapy and surgical background means I place equal importance on both aspects — ensuring that you understand all non-operative options before making any decision about surgery.

This section covers:

  • Knee Injections

  • Hip Injections

  • Bracing

  • Physical Therapy

Knee Injections

Knee injections can reduce inflammation, relieve pain, and support rehabilitation. They are often useful when symptoms flare or when you wish to delay surgery.

Common options include:

Corticosteroid injections

Provide short-term relief of inflammation and swelling.

Hyaluronic acid (viscosupplementation)

Improves lubrication inside the knee, reducing stiffness and facilitating smoother movement.

Arthrosamid

Arthrosamid is a long-acting hydrogel injection designed specifically for knee osteoarthritis and can provide relief lasting

It may be a good option if:

  • your knee arthritis is painful, but you are not ready for replacement surgery

  • you want to delay surgery safely

  • other injections have not provided lasting relief

Bracing

Bracing can support the knee after injury or during early arthritis. Different braces are designed to:

  • Offload pressure from the arthritic part of the knee

  • Stabilise ligament injuries

  • Support return to activity after trauma

  • Improve confidence during sport or daily movement

Physical Therapy

Physiotherapy is central to nearly all hip and knee treatment plans — whether surgical or non-surgical.

Strengthening, balance training, activity modification, and mobility work help:

  • Reduce pain

  • Improve walking distance

  • Support long-term joint health

  • Enhance outcomes after surgery

With my background as a physiotherapist, I place strong emphasis on designing personalised rehabilitation plans that integrate seamlessly with any injections or surgical procedures.

FAQs

Can non-surgical treatments delay the need for surgery?

Yes — many patients experience meaningful relief with injections, physiotherapy, bracing, or lifestyle changes. However, if pain remains severe or function continues to decline, surgery may offer the best outcome.

Do injections treat the underlying arthritis?

Injections do not reverse arthritis, but they can greatly reduce pain, allowing you to stay active and progress rehabilitation safely.

Are braces helpful for all types of knee pain?

Braces are most useful for: • unicompartmental arthritis • ligament injuries • instability They are less useful for severe arthritis affecting the whole knee.

Is physiotherapy necessary if I’m planning to have surgery anyway?

Yes — prehabilitation improves surgical outcomes, speeds recovery, and reduces postoperative stiffness. It is highly recommended for all patients.

Can non-surgical treatments delay the need for surgery?

Yes — many patients experience meaningful relief with injections, physiotherapy, bracing, or lifestyle changes. However, if pain remains severe or function continues to decline, surgery may offer the best outcome.

Do injections treat the underlying arthritis?

Injections do not reverse arthritis, but they can greatly reduce pain, allowing you to stay active and progress rehabilitation safely.

Are braces helpful for all types of knee pain?

Braces are most useful for: • unicompartmental arthritis • ligament injuries • instability They are less useful for severe arthritis affecting the whole knee.

Is physiotherapy necessary if I’m planning to have surgery anyway?

Yes — prehabilitation improves surgical outcomes, speeds recovery, and reduces postoperative stiffness. It is highly recommended for all patients.

FAQs

Can non-surgical treatments delay the need for surgery?

Yes — many patients experience meaningful relief with injections, physiotherapy, bracing, or lifestyle changes. However, if pain remains severe or function continues to decline, surgery may offer the best outcome.

Do injections treat the underlying arthritis?

Injections do not reverse arthritis, but they can greatly reduce pain, allowing you to stay active and progress rehabilitation safely.

Are braces helpful for all types of knee pain?

Braces are most useful for: • unicompartmental arthritis • ligament injuries • instability They are less useful for severe arthritis affecting the whole knee.

Is physiotherapy necessary if I’m planning to have surgery anyway?

Yes — prehabilitation improves surgical outcomes, speeds recovery, and reduces postoperative stiffness. It is highly recommended for all patients.

Can non-surgical treatments delay the need for surgery?

Yes — many patients experience meaningful relief with injections, physiotherapy, bracing, or lifestyle changes. However, if pain remains severe or function continues to decline, surgery may offer the best outcome.

Do injections treat the underlying arthritis?

Injections do not reverse arthritis, but they can greatly reduce pain, allowing you to stay active and progress rehabilitation safely.

Are braces helpful for all types of knee pain?

Braces are most useful for: • unicompartmental arthritis • ligament injuries • instability They are less useful for severe arthritis affecting the whole knee.

Is physiotherapy necessary if I’m planning to have surgery anyway?

Yes — prehabilitation improves surgical outcomes, speeds recovery, and reduces postoperative stiffness. It is highly recommended for all patients.