MISSOULA, Mont. – Missoula Bone & Joint has introduced robotic technology to enhance knee and hip joint surgeries, responding to growing interest from patients.
Dr. Cam Barton, a joint replacement surgeon at Missoula Bone & Joint, explained the motivation behind bringing this technology to the area. “You know we definitely would get one phone call a week about someone asking, ‘Is this technology available?’ and maybe they would have to go out of state or somewhere else for it and so there has definitely been some excitement about bringing it in and getting to use it,” said Dr. Barton.
The robotics system uses tracking pins placed within the shin bone or femur, allowing a camera to assess balance and range of motion. This technology provides real-time movement visuals on a screen used during surgery.
Dr. Barton shared his enthusiasm for the new technology. “Yeah, I think it was both kind of the desire, the patient demand, people asking more and more. And then personally subjectively, I’m really excited about it because I feel like I personally as a surgeon can fine tune the position a lot better,” he said.
Despite involving robotics, the procedure remains surgeon-controlled, with extensive research backing its implementation. The technology allows for precise millimeter measurements for incisions during surgeries. Importantly, there is no additional cost to patients as the procedure is covered by insurance, maintaining the same cost as traditional surgeries.
Dr. Barton emphasized the goal of helping patients return to activities like hunting and fishing as soon as possible after surgery.
Missoula Bone & Joint will host a free informational session about the robotics technology for the community on February 20 at 6:00 p.m.