Imageless Robotic Arm-Assisted Total Knee Arthroplasty: Workflow Optimization, Operative Times, and Learning Curve

Abstract

Background Robotic arm-assisted total knee arthroplasty (RATKA) offers several advantages, including precise restoration of mechanical or kinematic alignment, accurate bone resections, reliable implant size prediction, alignment optimization, and dynamic gap balancing. However, a key concern among arthroplasty surgeons is the perceived increase in operative time associated with adopting this technology. This study describes the step-by-step surgical workflow of imageless RATKA and evaluates the surgical times and learning curve associated with this technique. Methods This study is a retrospective analysis of the data of the first 60 cases of imageless RATKA done between February 2023 and November 2024 at a single surgical center by the same surgical team. Patients undergoing imageless RATKA for Kellgren and Lawrence grade 4 osteoarthritis were included, while those with prior knee surgery or high tibial osteotomy were excluded. All procedures utilized the DePuy Attune implant with a tibia-first surgical workflow, performed via a midline vertical incision and medial parapatellar arthrotomy. Surgical times were recorded and analyzed by an independent observer not involved in the surgeries. The 60 cases were divided into four groups of 15 cases (group 1 consisted of the first 15 cases, i.e., case number 1 to case number 15; group 2 consisted of the next consecutive 15 cases, i.e., case number 16 to case number 30; group 3 consisted of case number 31 to case number 45; and group 4 consisted of the last 15 cases, i.e., case number 46 to case number 60) each to evaluate the learning curve and calculate mean surgical times. Results The surgical times (in minutes) of the various groups were as follows: group 1 (0-15 cases) = 96.27 ± 4.46; group 2 (16-30 cases) = 91.07 ± 3.75; group 3 (31-45 cases) = 88.67 ± 3.58; group 4 (46-60 cases) = 86.13 ± 3.66. Comparison of means shows p values of 0.005, 0.03, and 0.09 between group 1 and 2, group 2 and 3, and group 3 and 4, respectively, indicating normalization of the operative time and a learning curve of 15 cases. Conclusion By following a standardized and reproducible tibia-first workflow, the operative time for imageless RATKA normalizes roughly after 15cases, i.e., group 2 onwards. This suggests that surgical time should not be a barrier for surgeons considering the adoption of this technology. The findings support the feasibility and efficiency of integrating robotic-assisted systems into routine arthroplasty practice.