ADVANCEMENTS IN KNEE REPLACEMENT: WHAT THE LATEST RESEARCH TELLS US

By Mr Trevor Lawrence, Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon

Knee replacement surgery has advanced greatly over the last few decades. What was once considered a major operation with a long recovery time is now a highly refined and increasingly personalised procedure.

As a consultant orthopaedic surgeon with over 25 years of experience, I’ve seen first-hand how innovations in knee replacement are helping patients return to active, pain-free lives more quickly and confidently than ever before.

In this article, I’ll highlight some of the most promising developments from recent research and what they could mean for patients considering knee surgery.

1. SMART IMPLANTS AND DATA-DRIVEN RECOVERY

One of the most exciting developments is the rise of “smart” knee implants, such as Zimmer Biomet’s Persona IQ® – The Smart Knee™. These implants have built-in sensors that collect real-time data on a patient’s step count, range of motion, and walking patterns after surgery.

This information can be shared with the clinical team to monitor progress remotely and fine-tune recovery plans—helping to identify any issues early and encouraging personalised rehabilitation. It’s a major step forward in post-operative care.

I am actively reviewing this technology to assess its long-term benefits and practicality for my patients here in the West Midlands.

2. ROBOTIC-ASSISTED SURGERY

Robotic systems are becoming increasingly common in knee replacement surgery. These systems don’t replace the surgeon but provide enhanced accuracy and control when preparing the joint and positioning the implant.

Recent studies have shown that robotic-assisted surgery may lead to:

• Improved alignment of implants

• Reduced soft tissue damage

• Faster early recovery

• Potentially less post-operative pain

While I currently use precise, well-established manual techniques, I continue to assess the evidence on robotic-assisted surgery to determine its suitability within my clinical practice.

3. PARTIAL KNEE REPLACEMENT FOR TARGETED RELIEF

For patients with damage confined to one part of the knee—typically the medial (inner) or lateral (outer) compartment—partial knee replacement remains a highly effective option.

Implants like the Oxford® Fixed Lateral Partial Knee have shown excellent long-term results, preserving more of the natural joint and allowing for a faster recovery compared to total knee replacement. New research continues to support the use of these targeted treatments in the right patient population.

4. ENHANCED RECOVERY PATHWAYS (ERPS)

Research into recovery protocols shows that multidisciplinary, patient-tailored ERPs—which may include regional anaesthesia, rapid mobilisation, and nutritional support—can shorten hospital stays without compromising outcomes.

In many cases, patients can return home the same day or within 24–48 hours after surgery, supported by physiotherapy and follow-up care that starts from the moment the operation is complete.

5. CUSTOMISED IMPLANTS AND 3D PLANNING

Advances in imaging and manufacturing now make it possible to design implants that better match a patient’s individual bone shape. This may improve comfort, implant longevity, and overall satisfaction.

In some centres, 3D surgical planning and even custom cutting guides are being used to ensure precision placement—helping the implant feel more like a natural joint.

These innovations are promising, and I continue to monitor their development to determine how they might benefit my patients over time.

WHAT DOES THIS MEAN FOR YOU?

While not every new technology is appropriate for every patient—or every clinic—these developments reflect a clear trend in modern orthopaedics: care that is more personalised, precise, and patient-centred.

I continue to evaluate emerging technologies carefully to ensure that any innovation I adopt is safe, effective, and in my patients’ best interests.

If you’re experiencing persistent knee pain that affects your daily life, you don’t need to face it alone. There are more options—and better outcomes—than ever before.

If you have questions about knee replacement surgery or want to explore your treatment options, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our team. We’re here to help you move forward with confidence.