Recently, LHSC has become the first hospital in Canada and one of only half a dozen institutions in the world to have all four major hip and knee replacement surgical robots on site. London Health Sciences Centre (LHSC) is home to one of the largest surgical fellowship programs in Canada for hip and knee replacements and sees some of the highest clinical volumes.
Many partner hospitals utilize only one or two robots, but having the use of four enables surgeons to tailor treatments to meet diverse patient needs.
“This is a unique opportunity to offer more personalized medicine and have more selections of joint replacements based on the best fit for the patient,” says Dr. Steven MacDonald, Division Head, Orthopaedic Surgery, at London Health Sciences Centre. “Historically in orthopaedic surgeries, we put everyone in similar alignment, but these robotics can sometimes support a more personalized surgery.”
Having all four robots gives LHSC the unique opportunity to offer rare training experiences for residents and fellows. “Clinical fellows can train on each robot, ensuring they can work with any robotic system worldwide, regardless of their future facility's equipment, but this also provides the opportunity to make the best decision for the patient”, says Dr. Brent Lanting, Orthopaedic Surgeon at LHSC.
This positions LHSC as a leader in research, since robotics in hip and knee surgeries have seen major advancements in recent years.
Orthopaedic surgeons continue to learn how to use these tools to optimize outcomes, such as earlier discharge from the hospital or better implant positioning.
“The most important thing to know is that our patients are getting the best treatment out there that we can offer in orthopaedics today,” says Dr. James Howard, Orthopaedic Surgeon at LHSC.
The acquisition of these four robots, which has led to advancement in patient care and innovation, was made possible by several generous donors through London Health Sciences Foundation (LHSF). It is through their generosity that we can continually advance patient care and innovation.
"The acquisition of all four major orthopaedics robots at LHSC represents a monumental step forward both for our hospital and the patients it serves,” says John MacFarlane, President and CEO for LHSF. “This cutting-edge technology—made possible, in part, through generous donor contributions—will not only enhance the precision and quality of surgical care but also solidify LHSC's position as a leader in medical innovation and education."
Dr. MacDonald remarks, “It’s an exciting time – I think you’re going to see this explosion of technology in the next few years. LHSC is perfectly positioned to be at the forefront of research, education and clinical applications.”