Robotic Knee Replacement Surgery in Turkey

Do you need knee surgery but are nervous about the complex procedure and high costs?

Then, consider robotic knee replacement surgery in Turkey– a revolutionary low-cost option to fix your knees!

Knee Replacement in the Turkey

With a rise in the need for knee replacement in the UK, robotic surgeries are a preferred alternative.

They deliver desired results with better precision than traditional knee surgeries. All of this at budget-friendly prices!

Status of Knee Surgery in UK
State of Knee Surgery in UK
Robotic-assisted knee surgery has become very popular over the years. The use of this technology in the US has grown by over 2000% from 2010 to 2018![1]Arthroplast Today
90-Day Complication Rates for Robotic Assistance for Total Knee Arthroplasty
“RA-TKA had the greatest increase in utilization (+2204%). The Western region had the highest utilization of technologies for TKA, while the Midwestern region had the lowest.”
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This all-in-one guide will walk you through the details of this new-age procedure in Turkey.

What is Robotic Knee Surgery in Turkey?

Robotic knee surgery removes the damaged portion of your knee and replaces it with artificial joints.

It is similar to conventional knee surgery, except that your surgeon will be assisted by a robotic arm or a handheld robotic device.[2]StatPearls
Robotic Assisted Total Knee Arthroplasty
“Robotic surgeries are not intended to replace the surgeon but rather to provide assistance.”
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The robotic system helps your surgeon achieve greater precision in various ways, which include:

  • Utilizing CT scans of your knee to accurately plan the incision and implant positioning
  • Assists in mapping out a unique and personalized surgical plan
  • Assists your surgeon in controlling their force and movement when operating on your knee
  • Cutting away damaged tissues of your knee with a lower risk of error[3]StatPearls
    Robotic Assisted Total Knee Arthroplasty
    “Robots present a tool in which surgeons can do surgical procedures while minimizing human error and maximizing operative accuracy.”
    View in Article

Should You Opt For A Knee Replacement in Turkey?

With a patient satisfaction rate between 75% to 92%, total knee replacement is a powerful method for relieving pain and restoring knee function in patients with advanced-stage arthritis.[4]StatPearls
Robotic Assisted Total Knee Arthroplasty
“With a patient satisfaction rate measured within the range of 75% to 92%, TKA presents a powerful method for pain relief and functional restoration in patients with advanced arthritis.”
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Robotic Knee Replacement Surgery in Turkey

Cost of Robotic Knee Replacement Surgery

The cost of robotic total knee replacement surgery in Turkey is about €13,500. The same costs roughly €55,000 in the UK.

Robotic bilateral partial knee replacement is priced at €20,000-21,000 in Turkey but costs an estimated €48,000-50,000 in the UK. Hence, you can expect more than 50% cost savings in Turkey.

The table below shows the price comparison between robotic knee replacement surgery in Turkey and the UK.

Cost of Robotic Knee Surgery in Turkey v/s UK
Procedure Turkey UK Savings
Robotic total knee replacement €13,500 €55,000 75%
Robotic bilateral total knee replacement €20,000 €60,000 67%
Robotic bilateral unicompartmental (partial) knee replacement €20,000 €48,000 58%
Robotic bilateral bicompartmental (partial) knee replacement €21,000 €50,000 58%
*Please note that the prices are case-dependent. Kindly contact us to get a FREE customized quote.

Robotic Knee Surgery Procedure

Robotic knee surgery is similar to traditional knee replacement. The procedure is as follows:[5]NCBI
Robotic Total Knee Arthroplasty
“Robotic TKA uses computer software to convert anatomical information into a virtual patient-specific 3D reconstruction of the knee joint.”
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Step 1

Pre-Surgical Planning

CT Scan

The doctor takes a CT scan to form a virtual 3D model of your knee.

The system helps them plan the perfect bone cut and implant positioning.

Step 2

Mapping Out the Surgical Site

Pre Surgery

An incision is made at your knee. The robotic system maps a predefined spot for the surgeon to work within.

This prevents them from damaging the surrounding tissues.

Step 3

Removal of Tissue

Your surgeon may do this manually with feedback from a robotic device.

Alternatively, a robotic arm may make the incisions.

Step 4

Placement of Prostheses

Robotic-Knee-Surgery

The surgeon positions and attaches the pieces of the artificial joint based on the 3D model.

Step 5

Stitching Up the Incision

Knee Incision

After assessing your knee’s function, the doctor will close up the incision using sutures.

The procedure may vary depending on the type of robotic system utilized.

One such robotic system used in Turkey is Mako Robotic-Arm Assisted Technology. The Mako System software helps your surgeon develop a personalized surgical plan.

During the operation, your surgeon will guide the Mako robotic arm to remove damaged tissues and cartilage from your knee joint.

Traditional vs. Robotic Surgery for Knee Replacements

Compared to traditional knee surgery, robotic-assisted ones display improved outcomes in terms of the following:[6]Bone & Joint Research
Robotic Total Knee Arthroplasty
“TKA was associated with improved accuracy of femoral and tibial implant positioning, correlated to increased patient satisfaction, greater stability, and improved kinematics through the arc of motion following TKA. ”
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  • Better patient satisfaction
  • Lower risk of needing a revision surgery
  • Greater stability of knee joint post-surgery
  • Earlier hospital discharge and faster recovery
  • Greater accuracy in positioning the prosthetic implant
  • Smoother and better motion of knee joints post-surgery
  • Reduced post-operative pain, inflammation, and swelling

More research is underway to find out if robotic knee surgery is better than traditional knee surgery in the long run.

But so far, studies are promising and have shown faster recovery and reduced pain with robotic knee surgery.[7]Orthopedic Reviews
What are the benefits of robotic-assisted total knee arthroplasty over conventional manual total knee arthroplasty?
“Patients’ satisfaction in RA-TKA is increased in the early postoperative time with better clinical outcomes compared to CM-TKA. Short-to-mid-term survivorship and complication rates did not show significant difference among the two groups. ”
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Advantages of Robotic-Assisted Knee Surgery in Turkey

Here are some reasons Turkey is at the top of the list as an attractive destination for robotic knee surgery.

Lower Costs

  • The cost of living in Turkey is 65% cheaper than in the UK.[8]Expatistan
    Cost of living in Turkey compared to United Kingdom
    “Cost of living in Turkey is 65% cheaper than in United Kingdom.”
    View in Article
  • Specialists can offer more affordable rates for surgical procedures.[9]Hurriyet Daily News
    400,000 Europeans visit Turkey for health tourism
    “A recent report by the Health Tourism Department of the Health Services General Directorate said patients from the U.S. prefer Turkey because treatment expenses are around 35 percent to 60 percent cheaper in Turkey than in their country. ”
    View in Article
Robotic knee replacement in Izmir, Turkey starts at €15,000 & saves ~39%!

Premium-Quality Services

  • The medical facilities in Turkey are equipped with modern operating theatres, comfortable wards, and advanced technology.
  • Our board-certified partner specialist has extensive experience in orthopedics.
  • Low communication barriers as medical staff and doctors can speak English.

Why Choose Turkey for Robotic Knee Replacement

Ease of Access

  • The most convenient and quickest way to get to Turkey is via flight.
  • There are over 50 airports in Turkey, most of which cater to international passengers.
  • Flight durations range from 3 to 5 hours.[10]Flight Centre UK
    Flights to Turkey
    “The short-haul flight to Turkey takes over 3 hours non-stop. The total flight duration from London to Istanbul is 3 hours and 40 minutes and from London to Dalaman is 4 hours and 10 minutes. ”
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Sightseeing Opportunities

  • Turkey is an all-rounded tourist destination with beaches, luxury resorts, hot air balloon attractions, and numerous hiking trails.
  • You can also visit ancient ruins, museums, historical sites, and beautiful mosques.

Who is a Candidate for Robotic Knee Surgery in Turkey?

Total knee replacement surgery (robotic or traditional) is usually recommended if you meet the criteria[11]StatPearls
Total Knee Arthroplasty Techniques
“TKA is an elective procedure that is, in most cases, reserved for patients experiencing chronic, debilitating symptoms that continue to persist despite exhaustion of all conservative and nonoperative treatment modalities. ”
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:

  • Advanced-stage osteoarthritis.
  • Unsuccessful conservative or non-surgical treatment.
  • Primary osteoarthritis not caused by any other underlying disease or condition.
  • Long-term and debilitating symptoms (swelling, pain, and inflammation of the knee joint)
Robotic Orthopedic Surgery in Turkey – Is It for You?

Robotic Knee Replacement Recovery Process

After your knee surgery in Turkey, your doctor will closely monitor your progress, provide medications to help relieve pain, and chalk out an at-home recovery plan.

Robotic knee replacement surgery allows for quicker recovery. And here’s what you should know about the recovery process.[12]NHS
Recovery, Knee replacement
“Generally, you’ll be helped to stand within 12 to 24 hours after your operation. Walking with a frame or crutches is encouraged. Most people are able to walk independently with sticks after about a week. ”
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Timeline Recovery stage
24 hours You’ll likely be able to stand.
2-3 days Your doctor will discharge you from the hospital.
first week You may start walking without the help of a frame or crutches.
1-2 months Most people can resume normal leisure activities and walk without support.
 1 year Any residual pain or swelling would have completely subsided.

Recovery Tips for Robotic Knee Surgery in Turkey

Here are some post-surgery care tips to remember during your recovery:[13]NHS
Recovery, Knee replacement
“Looking after your new knee: Continue to take any prescribed painkillers or anti-inflammatories to help manage any pain and swelling ”
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  • Take any anti-inflammatory medications recommended by your doctor.
  • Try not to sit with your legs crossed in the first 6 weeks after surgery.
  • Ensure you wear comfortable and supportive shoes when outdoors.
  • Avoid bending down or stretching upwards in the first 6 weeks.

You may need a follow-up to check your progress after 6-12 weeks.

Best Doctor in Turkey for Robotic Knee Replacement

Picking an experienced and highly-trained surgeon will reduce your risk of complications and ensure you get the best outcomes possible.

Here’s our pick of the best doctor in Turkey for robotic knee surgery.

Dr. Nevzat Selim Gokay, MD

Dr Nevzat Gokay

Education and training:

  • Graduated from the faculty of medicine, Cerrahpasa University Istanbul (2000)
  • Orthopedics and Traumatology specialization training at the faculty of medicine, Istanbul University Cerrahpaşa (2005)
  • Underwent robotic joint surgery training in the US

Experience:

  • More than 15 years of work experience as a specialist in Orthopaedics and Traumatology

Accreditation:

  • European Board of Orthopedics & Traumatology (EBOT), Spain

EBOT Diploma

Membership:

  • Turkish Sports Injuries and Knee Surgery Association (TUSYAD)
  • Turkish Association of Orthopedics and Traumatology (TOTBID)
  • International Cartilage Repair Society (ICRS)

FAQs


What's the difference between robotic knee surgery and regular knee surgery?

The main difference is that robotic knee surgery is conducted with the assistance of a robotic arm or handheld device. This robotic device may help to remove damaged tissue.

Other times, it may support the surgeon by providing feedback on his movement and force while resecting your bones.[14]StatPearls
Robotic Assisted Total Knee Arthroplasty
“There are different types of robotic knee arthroplasty. Certain types actively do all steps of tibial and femoral bone resections, known as “fully active.” Other types enable the surgeons to do the surgery while giving feedback intraoperatively to assist in control resection of the tibia and femur to the pre-operative surgical plan, and this group is known as “semi-active.” ”
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What is the success rate of robotic knee replacement in Turkey?

Robotic knee surgery in Turkey has a high success rate. According to studies, over 97% of knee implants will continue to function well after 10 years.

The complication rate for robotic knee surgery is also low—around 1.7%.[15]EFORT Open
The current state of robotics in total knee arthroplasty
“Three comparative studies evaluating this system demonstrated comparable survivorship rates with conventional TKA of more than 97% after 10 years. Two recent systematic reviews suggested that the incidence was higher in robotic TKA at 1.6–1.7% compared to 0.44–1.00% in manual TKA. ”
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Is there less pain with robotic knee replacement?

Yes, robotic knee replacement tends to be less painful than conventional knee replacement surgery.

Due to the higher precision of robotic knee surgery, the soft tissues surrounding your affected knee joint are better preserved.[16]Orthopedic Reviews
What are the benefits of robotic-assisted total knee arthroplasty over conventional manual total knee arthroplasty?
“ Improved preservation of the periarticular soft tissue in robotic TKA may reduce local postoperative inflammatory response, pain and postoperative soft tissue swelling.”
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This leads to reduced inflammation and swelling of the soft tissues, hence, lower pain and faster recovery.

How long does it take to recover from a robotic knee replacement?

Since robotic-assisted surgery is minimally-invasive, this leads to a faster recovery time and discharge from the hospital.

It will take 1 to 2 months to fully recover from a robotic knee replacement, after which you can resume your usual activities.

Any pain and swelling may take up to a year to completely subside.[17]NHS
Recovery, Knee replacement
“You should be able to stop using your crutches or walking frame and resume normal leisure activities 6 weeks after surgery. However, it may take up to 3 months for pain and swelling to settle down. It can take up to a year for any leg swelling to disappear. ”
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What are the disadvantages of robotic knee surgery?

Robotic knee surgery can be expensive in the US and UK. Luckily, getting robotic knee replacement surgery in Turkey is a very affordable alternative.

The operation time is also longer for robotic surgery. This may increase your risk of infection by a small margin.[18]StatPearls
Robotic Assisted Total Knee Arthroplasty
“The robotic TKR is expensive and needs software applications to be installed. The preoperative CT adds a cost to the total cost of the procedure and increased radiation exposure. Also, there is an increase in the time of operation, especially during the learning phase. ”
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Plus, this technology is quite new. Hence, researchers are still studying the long-term benefits of this procedure.


Conclusion

Robotic knee surgery in Turkey is a highly effective and affordable way to give your knees a new lease on life.

At the same time, you can enjoy the beautiful culture, delicious delicacies, and gorgeous sights of Turkey.

If you have any doubts or questions about knee surgery in Turkey, feel free to contact us. We’d be more than happy to address them.

References

1. Arthroplast Today: 90-Day Complication Rates for Robotic Assistance for Total Knee Arthroplasty
2. StatPearls: Robotic Assisted Total Knee Arthroplasty
3. NCBI: Robotic Total Knee Arthroplasty
4. Bone & Joint Research: Robotic Total Knee Arthroplasty
5. Orthopedic Reviews: What are the benefits of robotic-assisted total knee arthroplasty over conventional manual total knee arthroplasty?
6. Expatistan: Cost of living in Turkey compared to United Kingdom
7. Hurriyet Daily News: 400,000 Europeans visit Turkey for health tourism
8. Flight Centre UK: Flights to Turkey
9. StatPearls: Total Knee Arthroplasty Techniques
10. NHS: Recovery, Knee replacement
11. EFORT Open: The current state of robotics in total knee arthroplasty