Abstract
The use of robotics in total joint arthroplasty is the latest in a long list of expensive technologies that promise multiple positive outcomes, but come with an expensive price tag. In the last decade alone we've seen the same claims for navigation and patient specific instruments and implants. There are various current systems available including a robotic arm, robotic-guided cutting jigs and robotic milling systems.
For robotics to be widely adopted it will need to address the following concerns, which as of 2017 it has not.
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1)
Cost - Very clearly the robotic units come with a significant price tag. Perhaps over time, like other technologies, they will reduce, but at present they are prohibitive for most institutions.
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Outcomes - One could perhaps justify the increased costs if there was compelling evidence that either outcomes were improved or revision rates reduced. Neither of these has been proved in any type of randomised trial or registry captured data.
As with any new technology one must be wary of the claims superseding the results. In 2017 the jury is still out on the cost vs. benefit of robotic-assisted TKA.
