Procedures  ›  Technology

Robotic & Computer-Assisted Surgery

Every primary replacement planned in 3D and executed with sub-millimeter precision.

CT-based planningSub-millimeter accuracyReal-time verification
Overview

Dr. Debbi uses robotic-arm assistance and computer navigation on every primary hip and knee replacement. These are not add-ons, they are the baseline standard of his practice. Every case is planned in three dimensions before a single incision is made.

As one of the few orthopedic surgeons in the world with a doctorate in biorobotics and biomechanics, Dr. Debbi is uniquely positioned to use these technologies at their full capability, not as a marketing feature, but as a fundamental improvement in precision, alignment, and outcomes.

Technique
01

3D modeling

A low-dose CT scan of your joint is used to build a millimeter-accurate 3D model. Dr. Debbi reviews and refines the plan before you arrive for surgery.

02

Haptic boundaries

During surgery, the robotic arm provides a physical boundary, the surgical instruments cannot move outside the pre-planned zone. This allows preparation of the bone within a fraction of a millimeter of plan.

03

Soft-tissue balancing

Intra-operative sensors continuously measure ligament tension and joint kinematics. The plan is adjusted in real time before any bone is removed.

04

Live verification

Implant position, limb alignment, and leg length are confirmed intra-operatively, not at the follow-up X-ray. Adjustments, if needed, are made before closure.

Recovery timeline
Day 0
Same as standard replacement, walking the same day.
Weeks 1–6
Studies suggest robotic-assisted cases may have less early pain and faster return to function.
Long-term
Improved implant alignment is associated with longer implant survival in registry studies.

Timelines are typical, individual recovery varies based on age, health status, pre-operative condition, and adherence to physical therapy. Dr. Debbi will give you a personalized recovery plan.

In patients' words
Dr. Debbi showed me the 3D plan before surgery, exact implant size, position, ligament tension. That level of preparation was reassuring. The knee tracks perfectly. Eight weeks out and I'm back at the gym.
Patient, age 64 ★★★★★ Google review
My first knee was a traditional replacement and always felt slightly off. The second was robotic-assisted by Dr. Debbi and feels like a completely different knee. The precision is real, not marketing.
Patient, age 70 ★★★★★ Google review
Who is a candidate
Common questions
No. The robot is a precision tool controlled by the surgeon. It cannot cut outside the pre-planned boundary, which allows the surgeon to work with greater precision than is possible with manual instruments.
Peer-reviewed studies show improved implant alignment, reduced outliers, and in some studies, faster early recovery with robotic assistance. Longer-term studies are ongoing, Dr. Debbi contributes to this research directly.
No. Robotic-assisted joint replacement requires institutional investment, surgeon training, and case volume. HSS is one of the world's highest-volume centers for this technology.
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Ready to take the next step?

New patient appointments are typically available within 1–2 weeks. Telehealth consultations available for out-of-state patients.