Chronic knee pain can significantly affect mobility and quality of life. For some, knee replacement surgery becomes a long-term solution when non-surgical treatments are no longer effective.

Understanding your options is essential for making an informed decision about private knee replacement surgery in Canada. At Pathway Surgery, our orthopedic specialists can assess whether a knee replacement may be suitable for your condition.

This blog is designed to help you understand what knee replacement surgery involves and support an informed decision about your care.

What is Robot-Assisted Knee Surgery?

Robotic-assisted knee surgery is a type of knee replacement where a qualified orthopedic surgeon uses robotic technology to enhance planning and precision.

The robot does not perform the surgery — instead, it provides the surgeon with real-time feedback and imaging data to guide implant alignment and protect surrounding tissue. This added support can help improve consistency and accuracy during the procedure.

At Pathway Surgery, robotic technology may be considered for patients needing full or partial knee replacements due to:

• Osteoarthritis

• Past joint trauma

• Degenerative joint disease

• Certain congenital or structural knee issues

The purpose of using a robotic knee system is to assist surgeons in accurate implant positioning and controlled bone preparation, particularly around sensitive areas of the joint.

Is Robotic-Assisted Knee Surgery Available in Canada?

Yes, robotic-assisted knee surgery is available in Canada. In recent years, private clinics, including Pathway Surgery, have integrated robotic technology into orthopedic care.

Many orthopedic surgeons are pursuing specialized training with these systems to ensure safe and effective use in surgical settings.

The ROSA® Knee System is Health Canada–approved and continues to be adopted in both public and private clinical environments as surgeons expand their training in robotic-assisted techniques.

What Robotic System is Used at Pathway Surgery?

Pathway Surgery uses the ROSA Knee System, approved for use in Canada in 2019.

ROSA supports the surgical team by providing real-time intraoperative data and imaging to guide implant alignment and soft tissue protection.

This technology is designed to enhance precision while allowing the surgeon to maintain full control throughout the procedure. 

Why do Some Patients Consider Robotic Assistance?

Robotic-assisted surgery may be considered when enhanced planning or precision is beneficial. While not every patient requires robotic technology, your surgeon may recommend it based on anatomy, implant type, or previous surgical history.

Potential benefits include:

• Preoperative planning: Enables the surgeon to create a customized surgical plan using imaging data before making any incisions.
  
  

• Intraoperative feedback: Provides real-time data to support accurate alignment and controlled bone removal.
  
  

• Soft tissue preservation: Assists in protecting surrounding ligaments and structures.
  
  

Outcomes vary from person to person. However, robotic assistance may support greater surgical accuracy when used in appropriately selected cases.

Is Robotic-Assisted Surgery Good for Complex Cases?

The suitability of robotic-assisted surgery for complex cases depends on the individual. It may be particularly helpful in revision surgeries, where precise planning is critical — for example, when working around previously placed implants or hardware.

Your orthopedic team will assess your case based on medical history, imaging, and other clinical factors before determining whether robotic assistance is appropriate.

The Pathway Surgery Approach to Robotic-Assisted Knee Surgery

At Pathway Surgery, we offer both traditional and robotic-assisted knee replacement procedures. Our orthopedic surgeons work closely with each patient to review imaging, discuss treatment goals, and determine whether robotic technology may support the surgical plan.

Our intake process is structured and transparent. From consultation through recovery planning, our team provides clear information so patients and families can make informed, confident decisions about their care.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Robotic Knee Surgery Available in Ontario?
Robotic-assisted knee surgery is available in select centers across Canada. At this time, Pathway Surgery performs the procedure at our Montreal location.

For patients traveling from Ontario or other provinces, our team provides comprehensive coordination support, including assistance with travel planning, local accommodations, and post-surgical logistics, to make the process as seamless and comfortable as possible.

How Do I Know if I’m a Candidate for Robotic-Assisted Knee Surgery?

Eligibility is determined by your orthopedic surgeon following a review of your medical history, imaging, and overall health. A consultation is the best way to understand whether robotic assistance may be appropriate.

Is Robotic Knee Replacement Better than Traditional Knee Surgery?

Not necessarily. Robotic assistance is a tool designed to enhance surgical precision — the choice depends on each patient’s anatomy and clinical needs.

A 2023 peer-reviewed study published in the Journal of Robotic Surgery found that robotic-assisted knee replacements were associated with: 

● A 14% shorter hospital stay 

● A 74% higher likelihood of being discharged directly home (instead of a rehab facility) 

● A 17% lower risk of readmission within 90 days 

These findings suggest that robotic-assisted techniques may support a smoother recovery in selected patients.

Next Steps – Connect with Pathway Surgery for Robotic-Assisted Knee Surgery

Robotic-assisted knee surgery is an advanced technique that must be performed by qualified orthopedic surgeons.
Pathway Surgery provides access to both traditional and robotic-assisted procedures using the ROSA® Knee System for eligible patients.

Our team supports patients across Canada in exploring their options for knee replacement. Contact us to book a consultation and learn more about whether robotic-assisted surgery may be suitable for your needs.