Andrew Robinson, 66, from Dallam, received the pioneering treatment at Halton Hospital on September 4, becoming the first person to benefit from the North Cheshire and Mersey NHS Foundation Trust’s new ROSA Knee System.
Andrew, a retired HGV mechanic, had been experiencing significant knee pain that had started to affect his everyday life.
He said: “My knee was worn out and I was in a lot of pain, so I couldn’t walk very far.
(Image: Supplied)
“When the consultant spoke to me about using ROSA, I was happy to go ahead.
“He explained everything to me and I trusted him.”
The ROSA (Robotic Surgical Assistant) Knee System is designed to support surgeons by providing real-time data and 3D visualisations of the patient’s knee anatomy during surgery.
This helps to improve precision in planning and implant placement.
Andrew said: “The whole experience was really good.
“The team were great and everyone looked after me.
“My recovery has been going well and I’m surprised by how much movement I already have.
“The scar is really neat and I can definitely tell my knee is better than it was before.”
The procedure was carried out by Gareth Stables, consultant trauma and orthopaedic surgeon at North Cheshire and Mersey NHS Foundation Trust.
Mr Stables said: “Andrew’s surgery went very well, with the operation taking around 80 minutes, which is well within the expected timeframe for a total knee replacement.
“The theatre team worked extremely well together throughout the procedure, and we also had excellent support from Zimmer Biomet, helping the whole process run smoothly from start to finish.
(Image: Supplied)
“It’s fantastic to now have our first patient through this new service.
“We’re looking forward to offering robotic-assisted knee replacement surgery to more patients over the coming weeks and months.”
Andrew was discharged from hospital the day after surgery and has already noticed significant improvements in mobility.
He said: “I’m looking forward to getting back to longer walks with my wife Debbie and getting back on my bike.
“We’re also hoping to get a motorhome next year, so I’m looking forward to being able to enjoy doing those things again.”
The introduction of robotic-assisted knee replacement surgery is part of North Cheshire and Mersey NHS Foundation Trust’s ongoing work to develop its orthopaedic services and provide patients across Cheshire and Merseyside with access to new approaches to treatment closer to home.
Andrew said: “I would definitely recommend it.
“I’m really pleased with how things have gone so far.”