Robotic-Assisted Partial & Total Knee Replacement

Robotic-Assisted Knee Replacement at King Edward VII’s Hospital and Chelsea Private Care

Knee replacement surgery has evolved significantly over the last decade. Advances in technology now allow knee replacements to be planned and performed with a level of precision that was not previously possible. Robotic-assisted surgery represents the most advanced approach, enabling personalised knee replacement tailored to each patient’s unique anatomy.

This modern innovation is commonly referred to as robotic knee replacement surgery, offering greater accuracy in implant positioning, improved joint alignment, and potentially faster recovery outcomes for patients.

Patients considering this advanced approach can benefit from the expertise of Mr Sivan Sivaloganathan, a knee surgery specialist with extensive experience in modern and robotic-assisted knee replacement techniques.

What Is Robotic-Assisted Knee Replacement Surgery?

Robotic-assisted knee replacement is a surgeon-led procedure that uses advanced robotic technology to support accuracy and personalisation during surgery. The robot does not operate independently. Instead, it provides real-time data and guidance while the surgeon maintains full control throughout the procedure.

During surgery, robotic guidance assists the surgeon in executing this plan with refined accuracy. Bone cuts and implant positioning are continuously monitored, protecting surrounding ligaments and healthy tissue while ensuring precise alignment.

This level of precision supports advanced knee reconstruction, helping to optimise surgical outcomes and long-term joint function.

Partial vs Total Knee Replacement

Robotic Assisted Partial Knee Replacement is suitable when arthritis is confined to a single compartment of the knee. Healthy bone, ligaments and cartilage are preserved, which often results in a more natural-feeling knee and faster recovery.

Robotic Total Knee Replacement is performed when arthritis affects the entire joint. The damaged surfaces are resurfaced while maintaining accurate alignment and ligament balance to optimise function and durability.

Patients commonly ask whether their knee will feel natural after surgery and whether robotic surgery is safer. Robotic technology allows millimetre-level precision that is not achievable with conventional techniques, helping improve balance and alignment.

Mr Sivaloganathan is recognised as one of a small number of UK surgeons at the forefront of robot-assisted knee surgery, particularly for complex and demanding cases.

The Robotic Surgery Advantage & What to Expect

How Robotic-Assisted Surgery Works

The process begins with detailed pre-operative planning using CT or MRI imaging. This allows a customised surgical plan to accommodate any pre-existing soft tissue integrity and bony defects.

During surgery, robotic guidance assists the surgeon in executing this plan with refined  accuracy. Bone cuts and implant positioning are continuously monitored, protecting surrounding ligaments and healthy tissue while ensuring precise alignment.

The surgeon remains in complete control at all times, with robotic technology enhancing not replacing surgical expertise.

Key Benefits Over Traditional Knee Replacement

Robotic-assisted knee replacement offers several advantages compared to conventional techniques. Precision implant placement helps preserve natural knee biomechanics, which may lead to improved movement and a more natural feel after surgery. Reduced soft tissue disruption supports faster rehabilitation, while optimal alignment can improve implant longevity and reduce wear over time.

By minimising variability and enhancing accuracy, robotic surgery also reduces the risk of malalignment, one of the key causes of dissatisfaction and early implant failure in knee replacement surgery.

The Patient Journey

Treatment begins with a comprehensive consultation and assessment to confirm suitability for surgery. Imaging and planning are completed prior to surgery to tailor the procedure to the individual knee.

On the day of surgery, robotic-assisted knee replacement is performed in a modern operating theatre equipped with advanced robotic platforms. Hospital stay is typically two to three days, during which pain control and early mobilisation are prioritised.

Physiotherapist begins shortly after surgery and continues through a structured rehabilitation programme. Most patients return to everyday activities and driving by 2-3 months post surgery, with further progression toward recreational activities over the following months. Long-term follow-up appointments ensure recovery remains on track and joint health is maintained.

Who Is a Candidate for Robotic Knee Replacement?

Robotic-assisted knee replacement may be suitable for patients with moderate to severe knee osteoarthritis who have not responded successfully to non-surgical treatments. It is particularly beneficial for active individuals seeking optimal functional outcomes, patients with complex knee anatomy, and younger patients aiming to maximise implant longevity through personalised alignment.

As a minimally invasive approach, robotic-assisted procedures share principles with keyhole knee surgery, helping to improve precision, reduce tissue disruption, and support faster recovery while maintaining excellent long-term results.

Why Choose Mr Sivan Sivaloganathan for Robotic Knee Replacement

Mr Sivan Sivaloganathan is a dual fellowship-trained knee surgeon with specialist training in complex knee surgery in Montreal, Canada, and robot-assisted complex knee surgery at Imperial College Healthcare Trust. He is an Imperial College London medical graduate and holds an MSc in Nanotechnology and Regenerative Medicine from University College London.

He is internationally recognised for his work in robotic-assisted knee replacement and personalised joint reconstruction. He has been invited as guest speaker at several international symposiums. Through the Global Visiting Surgeon Programme, international surgeons regularly visit to learn advanced robotic techniques directly from his practice.

His research portfolio focuses on personalised knee replacement strategies that preserve native alignment and optimise long-term outcomes, combining academic rigour with real-world clinical application.

A former British Army Medical Officer with operational deployment to Afghanistan, Mr Sivan Sivaloganathan brings military-grade precision and discipline to every procedure. His service has been recognised with the Herrick Medal with clasp and the NATO Medal. This attention to detail is paired with a patient-centred approach focused on clarity, continuity and long-term joint health.

Consultations and surgery are offered in Marylebone, Chelsea and Richmond/Chiswick, with affiliations to leading private hospitals including BUPA  and Circle Health Group. Facilities are fully accessible, inclusive and equipped with state-of-the-art robotic platforms. Appointments are available Monday to Saturday from 8am to 8pm.

Patients benefit from continuity of care, with a single surgeon overseeing the entire journey from diagnosis to surgery and recovery. If robotic surgery is not immediately required, access to the full spectrum of knee treatments remains available.

Book a Robotic Knee Replacement Consultation

If knee arthritis is limiting your mobility or quality of life, robotic-assisted knee replacement may offer a personalised and durable solution.

Book your expert consultation today.

Email: abigail.ballard@medicineinmotion.info

Telephone: (+44) 7823 701873

Robotic-assisted Partial & Total Knee Replacement FAQs

What is robotic-assisted knee replacement ?

Robotic-assisted knee replacement is a surgeon-led procedure that uses advanced robotic technology to support accuracy and personalisation during surgery. The robot does not operate independently. Instead, it provides real-time data and guidance while the surgeon maintains full control throughout the procedure.

Mr Sivaloganathan, one of the few UK surgeons at the forefront of robot-assisted surgery, with experience in both partial and total knee replacements, and hosts international surgeons through the Global Visiting Surgeon Programme to learn his techniques.

It is ideal for arthritis (knee), osteoarthritis, knee pain, and arthritis which leads to significant malalignment (‘bent knee’) providing a more natural-feeling knee post-surgery through personalised alignment.