Robotic-Arm Assisted Total Hip Arthroplasty: Workflow Optimization and Operative Times

Abstract

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Robotic-arm assisted total hip arthroplasty (RATHA) has been demonstrated to offer several benefits, such as increased accuracy in the placement of implants, improved patient outcomes and reduced complications such as dislocations in total hip arthroplasty. However, the potential increase in surgical time may sway some practitioners to hesitate adopting this technology, despite its benefits. Studies of RATHA learning curves have demonstrated that time neutrality can be achieved, but do not describe an efficient workflow. This paper lays out a process to achieve an optimal RATHA workflow and efficiencies in an ambulatory surgery center and presents timing data from 105 cases. We demonstrate that the learning curve for implementing RATHA can be navigated such that providers can offer the clinical benefits of RATHA to their patients without increasing operative or overall perioperative patient time.