Published by Commons Clinic. [Web version](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/articles/robotic-knee-replacement-questions/) Reviewer names are abbreviated. Patient reviews describe individual experiences. Review counts describe source records, not unique patients or clinical outcomes; the acquired snapshot may not include complete platform histories. Clinical education and patient accounts do not replace a consultation. Hip & joint replacement # 7 questions to ask when robotic knee replacement is offered Robotic assistance is a surgical tool, not a separate reason to have knee replacement. Ask how the technology fits the operation, what it changes and which outcomes remain uncertain. Published by Commons Clinic · Updated October 21, 2026 · 4 min read [Questions to ask ↓](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/articles/robotic-knee-replacement-questions/#consultation-questions) [Patient experiences ↓](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/articles/robotic-knee-replacement-questions/#patient-experiences) In this guide 1. [Confirm the operation before discussing the robot](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/articles/robotic-knee-replacement-questions/#guide-section-1) 2. [Ask what the system actually does](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/articles/robotic-knee-replacement-questions/#guide-section-2) 3. [Separate technical precision from patient outcomes](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/articles/robotic-knee-replacement-questions/#guide-section-3) 4. [Discuss the surgeon’s experience with both pathways](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/articles/robotic-knee-replacement-questions/#guide-section-4) 5. [Clarify additional steps, risks and costs](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/articles/robotic-knee-replacement-questions/#guide-section-5) 6. [Keep recovery expectations grounded](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/articles/robotic-knee-replacement-questions/#guide-section-6) 7. [Choose a plan you can explain](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/articles/robotic-knee-replacement-questions/#guide-section-7) [Go to your consultation questions ↓](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/articles/robotic-knee-replacement-questions/#consultation-questions) ## 1. Confirm the operation before discussing the robot Start with the diagnosis, symptoms and reasons replacement is being considered. Ask whether the recommendation is for partial or total knee replacement and which alternatives remain reasonable. Robotic assistance does not resolve whether you need an operation in the first place. If technology dominates the conversation before the treatment choice is clear, return to the basic question: what problem are we trying to improve, and why is this operation a suitable way to address it? Sources: [Robotic Knee Replacement Surgery](https://www.hss.edu/health-library/conditions-and-treatments/robotic-knee-replacement-surgery) ## 2. Ask what the system actually does HSS describes robotic systems as tools that help surgeons plan and execute parts of a knee replacement. The surgeon remains responsible for the operation. Ask whether the system uses a preoperative scan or mapping during surgery, what measurements it provides, and which decisions remain clinical judgments. Different platforms work differently. You should leave understanding the role of the equipment in ordinary language, rather than assuming that a robot performs the entire procedure independently. Sources: [Robotic Knee Replacement Surgery](https://www.hss.edu/health-library/conditions-and-treatments/robotic-knee-replacement-surgery) ## 3. Separate technical precision from patient outcomes Ask which claimed benefit concerns implant positioning and which concerns pain, function, complications or the need for later surgery. A more precise measurement does not automatically establish a better result in every patient. Request the evidence relevant to the system and procedure proposed, including the length of follow-up. If a benefit is described as possible or still being studied, keep that uncertainty in the decision rather than translating it into a promise of a faster or pain-free recovery. You can ask the surgeon to put the comparison into everyday terms: which task might improve differently, how large the difference is and how certain the research is. If that answer is not known, it should remain an uncertainty rather than become a selling point. Sources: [Advanced Technology in Hip and Knee Replacement Surgery](https://www.hss.edu/health-library/conditions-and-treatments/advanced-technology-in-hip-and-knee-replacement-surgery) ## 4. Discuss the surgeon’s experience with both pathways Ask how the surgeon's experience fits your procedure and the proposed platform. Find out how they decide when robotic assistance is useful and whether they also perform replacement without it. This is a conversation about judgment as well as equipment. Ask what happens if the technology cannot be used as planned and whether the operation can safely proceed by another method. An understandable backup plan can be more informative than a slogan about using the newest device. Sources: [Robotic Knee Replacement Surgery](https://www.hss.edu/health-library/conditions-and-treatments/robotic-knee-replacement-surgery) ## 5. Clarify additional steps, risks and costs Ask whether the plan involves extra imaging, temporary fixation pins or other steps that differ from the nonrobotic operation. Discuss any relevant risks, radiation considerations and charges. Request confirmation of coverage for the procedure and associated services rather than assuming the technology label determines insurance payment. If you are comparing estimates, make sure they include the same components. The goal is a fair comparison of the complete care plan, including items outside the operation itself. Sources: [Advanced Technology in Hip and Knee Replacement Surgery](https://www.hss.edu/health-library/conditions-and-treatments/advanced-technology-in-hip-and-knee-replacement-surgery) ## 6. Keep recovery expectations grounded Ask what rehabilitation, pain management, home assistance and follow-up are expected for your knee. Robotic assistance does not eliminate the need for recovery or erase the influence of your health and preoperative function. If someone suggests a different timeline because of the technology, ask what supports that estimate and which milestones still need assessment. Plan work, stairs and caregiving around your clinician's individualized instructions rather than the shortest recovery described in advertising or another patient's review. Sources: [Robotic Knee Replacement Surgery](https://www.hss.edu/health-library/conditions-and-treatments/robotic-knee-replacement-surgery) ## 7. Choose a plan you can explain Try summarizing the recommendation: why replacement is appropriate, why this type of replacement, and what the technology adds. Ask for clarification wherever that summary breaks down. Bring these questions to a knee consultation with our team, and ask which surgical approach and available tools fit the recommendation for your own knee. The best consultation for you should make the tradeoffs understandable and leave room for questions about a conventional approach as well as a technology-assisted one. Make the most of your visit ## Questions to bring to your consultation Choose the questions that matter most to you. Bring them along, and ask us to explain anything that is unclear. - Why do you recommend replacement now? - Would this be partial or total replacement? - What does this particular robotic system do? - Which patient outcomes are established and which remain uncertain? - How much experience do you have with this procedure and system? - What extra steps, risks or charges should I understand? - What is the backup plan if the technology is unavailable? - How will my recovery plan be individualized? ## Sources & further reading - [Robotic Knee Replacement Surgery](https://www.hss.edu/health-library/conditions-and-treatments/robotic-knee-replacement-surgery) Hospital for Special Surgery · Published October 16, 2024 - [Advanced Technology in Hip and Knee Replacement Surgery](https://www.hss.edu/health-library/conditions-and-treatments/advanced-technology-in-hip-and-knee-replacement-surgery) Hospital for Special Surgery We use these medical sources to help explain your options and prepare you for a conversation with our team. Our guides feature our own clinicians; patient reviews describe individual experiences. [Read as Markdown](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/articles/robotic-knee-replacement-questions/index.md) Meet our team ## People behind your care. [**Andrew Wassef, MD** Orthopedic Surgeon, Joints](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/physicians/andrew-wassef-md/) [More about Andrew Wassef ↗](https://commonsclinic.com/physicians/andrew-wassef-md/) [**Christopher Combs, MD** Orthopedic Surgeon, Joints & Sports Medicine](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/physicians/christopher-combs-md/) [More about Christopher Combs ↗](https://commonsclinic.com/physicians/christopher-combs-md/) [**Eric S. Millstein, MD** Orthopedic Surgeon, Joints & Sports Medicine](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/physicians/eric-millstein/) [More about Eric S. Millstein ↗](https://commonsclinic.com/physicians/eric-millstein/) [**Prem N. Ramkumar, MD, MBA** Orthopedic Surgeon, Joints & Sports Medicine](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/physicians/prem-n-ramkumar-md-mba/) [More about Prem N. Ramkumar ↗](https://commonsclinic.com/physicians/prem-n-ramkumar-md-mba/) Explore our clinicians, then talk with us about your symptoms, goals, and the care you need. Patient experiences ## Meet the clinician. *Hear the experience.* Read how patients describe their care, then bring the questions that matter to your own visit. Each portrait stays with that clinician’s accounts. [![Eric S. Millstein, MD](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/assets/eric-millstein.jpg)](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/physicians/eric-millstein/) ## [Eric S. Millstein, MD](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/physicians/eric-millstein/) Orthopedic Surgeon, Joints & Sports Medicine [Biography & all reviews →](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/physicians/eric-millstein/) [Commons Clinic profile ↗](https://commonsclinic.com/physicians/eric-millstein/) Excerpt > Very professional, quick and efficient! Highly recommend Dr. Millstein. S. Foy Rating: 5/5 · Source: Google · Date: February 18, 2026 [Reviewer’s Google activity](https://www.google.com/maps/contrib/105875038836594791365/place/ChIJt04grlG5woARykBaakD_dF8) Source link type: reviewer place Attributed clinician: Eric S. Millstein, MD The reviewer shares their experience of care. Excerpt > Dr. Millstein has a terrific way about him that instantly puts you at ease and his knowledge and professionalism gives you confidence in his opinions. E. Spaan Rating: 5/5 · Source: Google · Date: February 18, 2026 [Reviewer’s Google activity](https://www.google.com/maps/contrib/104931943814439119920/place/ChIJt04grlG5woARykBaakD_dF8) Source link type: reviewer place Attributed clinician: Eric S. Millstein, MD The reviewer shares their experience of care. [![Prem N. Ramkumar, MD, MBA](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/assets/prem-n-ramkumar-md-mba.jpg)](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/physicians/prem-n-ramkumar-md-mba/) ## [Prem N. Ramkumar, MD, MBA](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/physicians/prem-n-ramkumar-md-mba/) Orthopedic Surgeon, Joints & Sports Medicine [Biography & all reviews →](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/physicians/prem-n-ramkumar-md-mba/) [Commons Clinic profile ↗](https://commonsclinic.com/physicians/prem-n-ramkumar-md-mba/) Excerpt > We are now scheduling the 2nd knee surgery this summer and confident of the same outcome due to his excellent expertise and his caring team. R. Valdez Rating: 5/5 · Source: Google · Date: February 12, 2026 [Reviewer’s Google activity](https://www.google.com/maps/contrib/109957632369961879160/place/ChIJN5abTJkz3YARYFiCkifHPjw) Source link type: reviewer place Attributed clinician: Prem N. Ramkumar, MD, MBA A family member shares their experience of the care provided. Excerpt > (The picture attached is from my post-op appointment on Halloween lol, they are always VERY professional otherwise) A. Ziegel Rating: 5/5 · Source: Google · Date: January 30, 2026 [Reviewer’s Google activity](https://www.google.com/maps/contrib/107730464389351478978/place/ChIJN5abTJkz3YARYFiCkifHPjw) Source link type: reviewer place Attributed clinician: Prem N. Ramkumar, MD, MBA The reviewer shares their experience of care. [![Andrew Wassef, MD](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/assets/andrew-wassef-md.jpg)](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/physicians/andrew-wassef-md/) ## [Andrew Wassef, MD](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/physicians/andrew-wassef-md/) Orthopedic Surgeon, Joints [Biography & all reviews →](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/physicians/andrew-wassef-md/) [Commons Clinic profile ↗](https://commonsclinic.com/physicians/andrew-wassef-md/) Excerpt > Dr Wassef and his team were so great. My THR went really smoothly and I felt informed and supported every step of the way. S. Morales Rating: 5/5 · Source: Google · Date: August 25, 2023 [Reviewer’s Google activity](https://www.google.com/maps/contrib/104728189880601891388/place/ChIJqeNILuQy3YAR9WA5ym3pGLU) Source link type: reviewer place Attributed clinician: Andrew Wassef, MD The reviewer shares their experience of care. [![Christopher Combs, MD](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/assets/christopher-combs-md.jpg)](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/physicians/christopher-combs-md/) ## [Christopher Combs, MD](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/physicians/christopher-combs-md/) Orthopedic Surgeon, Joints & Sports Medicine [Biography & all reviews →](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/physicians/christopher-combs-md/) [Commons Clinic profile ↗](https://commonsclinic.com/physicians/christopher-combs-md/) Excerpt > Dr. Combs is great. He is knowledgeable and answers questions thoroughly. T. Howell Rating: 5/5 · Source: Google · Date: March 28, 2019 [Reviewer’s Google activity](https://www.google.com/maps/contrib/108717713292371554327/place/ChIJH2XhMeQy3YARbezZye2vIhY) Source link type: reviewer place Attributed clinician: Christopher Combs, MD The reviewer shares their experience of care. Keep exploring ## Your next *good question.* More guidance to help you understand your options and plan your next step. Knee ### [8 decisions before knee replacement, from goals to going home](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/articles/knee-replacement-decision/) A useful knee replacement consultation explains the diagnosis, the options, and what the operation may change in your life. Compare the whole plan, including rehabilitation, support at home, and access to help after surgery. [Read the guide](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/articles/knee-replacement-decision/) Knee ### [6 questions before partial or total knee replacement](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/articles/partial-or-total-knee-replacement/) The choice depends on which parts of your knee are affected and whether the remaining joint can support the result. [Read the guide](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/articles/partial-or-total-knee-replacement/) Hip & joint replacement ### [6 questions about dental visits after hip or knee replacement](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/articles/dental-care-after-joint-replacement/) A joint replacement changes the conversation with your dentist, but it does not automatically mean antibiotics before every visit. Ask your dentist and surgical team to agree on advice for the procedure and your health history. [Read the guide](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/articles/dental-care-after-joint-replacement/) Meet the clinicians ## Explore your *next conversation.* [![Andrew Wassef, MD](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/assets/andrew-wassef-md.jpg)](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/physicians/andrew-wassef-md/) Orthopedic Surgeon, Joints ### [Andrew Wassef, MD](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/physicians/andrew-wassef-md/) Lakewood · Long Beach – Douglas Park [Meet Andrew Wassef](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/physicians/andrew-wassef-md/) [![Christopher Combs, MD](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/assets/christopher-combs-md.jpg)](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/physicians/christopher-combs-md/) Orthopedic Surgeon, Joints & Sports Medicine ### [Christopher Combs, MD](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/physicians/christopher-combs-md/) Lakewood · Long Beach – Douglas Park [Meet Christopher Combs](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/physicians/christopher-combs-md/) [![Eric S. Millstein, MD](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/assets/eric-millstein.jpg)](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/physicians/eric-millstein/) Orthopedic Surgeon, Joints & Sports Medicine ### [Eric S. Millstein, MD](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/physicians/eric-millstein/) Santa Monica [Meet Eric S. Millstein](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/physicians/eric-millstein/) [![Prem N. Ramkumar, MD, MBA](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/assets/prem-n-ramkumar-md-mba.jpg)](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/physicians/prem-n-ramkumar-md-mba/) Orthopedic Surgeon, Joints & Sports Medicine ### [Prem N. Ramkumar, MD, MBA](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/physicians/prem-n-ramkumar-md-mba/) Lakewood · Long Beach – Douglas Park [Meet Prem N. Ramkumar](https://commonsclinicreviews.com/physicians/prem-n-ramkumar-md-mba/) ## Publisher & attribution Commons Clinic Reviews is operated by Commons Clinic. This website is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by Google, Zocdoc, or Yelp. Google, Google Maps, and Google Business Profile are trademarks of Google LLC. Zocdoc and the Zocdoc logo are trademarks of Zocdoc, Inc. Yelp and the Yelp logo are registered trademarks of Yelp Inc. All third-party names and logos belong to their respective owners and identify the original review sources. © 2026 Commons Clinic. All rights reserved.