Dr. Ravikumar Mukartihal

Osteoarthritis of the knee and hip is a degenerative joint disease characterized by the breakdown of cartilage, causing pain, stiffness and reduced mobility. It affects millions, primarily older adults and can lead to disability. Treatments aim to alleviate symptoms and may include physical therapy, medications and in severe cases, joint replacement surgeries. Robotic surgeries have revolutionized joint replacement by enhancing precision, minimizing tissue damage and promoting quicker recovery times. Surgeons utilize robotic-assisted systems to accurately align and position implants, improving the longevity and function of artificial joints. This technology offers patients a customized approach to joint replacement, enhancing overall outcomes.

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder that causes chronic inflammation of the joints, leading to pain, swelling and potential joint deformity. Arthritis care for rheumatoid arthritis focuses on managing symptoms and slowing disease progression. This involves a combination of medication, physical therapy and lifestyle adjustments. Early intervention and comprehensive care plans are crucial in preserving joint function and enhancing the quality of life. Advances in treatment such as biologic drugs have significantly improved the management of rheumatoid arthritis, allowing patients to maintain active and fulfilling lives despite the challenges posed by this condition.

Revision surgeries involve replacing or repairing a previous knee or hip replacement, often due to implant wear, infection or dislocation. These procedures are complex and require a high level of surgical expertise. Robotic surgeries play a significant role in revision surgeries by offering enhanced precision and control, which is crucial for the accurate removal of old implants and the placement of new ones. Surgeons with vast experience in joint replacement surgeries bring invaluable knowledge and skills, ensuring successful outcomes even in challenging cases. Their extensive practice in handling diverse scenarios enhances patient confidence and contributes significantly to surgical advancements and recovery outcomes.

Degenerative arthritis, also known as osteoarthritis, involves the gradual deterioration of joint cartilage and underlying bone, resulting in pain and reduced function. Arthritis care for degenerative arthritis focuses on pain management, maintaining mobility and preventing further joint damage. Treatment options include medication, physical therapy and lifestyle modifications, such as weight management and exercise. In severe cases, surgical interventions like joint replacement may be necessary. Robotic surgeries offer significant advantages in these scenarios, providing improved precision and outcomes. Comprehensive arthritis care involves a multidisciplinary approach, ensuring patients receive tailored treatment plans to manage their condition effectively

Post-traumatic arthritis develops in the knee following a fracture, ligament injury, or dislocation. Unlike age-related osteoarthritis, it can affect patients of any age and may appear months or years after the original injury, even when initial treatment was successful. The cartilage lining the joint deteriorates over time due to direct damage or altered joint mechanics, causing progressive pain, stiffness, and reduced function. Early evaluation and appropriate management help preserve joint function and determine the right timing for treatment.

MAKO robotic total knee replacement uses pre-operative CT imaging and intraoperative robotic guidance to assist the surgeon in placing the knee implant with precision tailored to each patient's individual anatomy. Before surgery, a three-dimensional model of the patient's knee is created from the CT scan and used to plan the exact position and alignment of the implant components. During the procedure, the robotic system provides real-time haptic guidance within the planned boundaries, ensuring bone preparation matches the pre-operative plan. The surgeon controls all decisions throughout. As a MAKO-certified robotic surgeon and national fellowship director, Dr Ravikumar Mukartihal performs this procedure at SPARSH Hospital, Infantry Road, Bengaluru, with a focus on precision-driven outcomes and functional recovery tailored to each patient's anatomy and lifestyle needs.