Inside Robotic Knee Replacement Surgery in Bangalore: A Medical Journalist’s Visit

Pooja Vishwakarma
43 minutes ago
5 min read

When I arrived at Opera Bone and Joint Clinic in the leafy lanes of Malleswaram, I was there not just as a visitor, but as a medical journalist intent on understanding how robotic knee replacement surgery in Bangalore is shaping the future of orthopedic care. In consulting with Dr. Ponnanna KM, a respected clinician with a reputation for precision and patient-centred care, I sought to explore both the clinical nuances of the procedure and the practical experience of patients who undergo it.

A Clinic Built on Precision: Environment, Expertise, and Setup

Opera Bone and Joint Clinic, anchored in a calm and professionally maintained facility presents itself as a comprehensive centre for orthopedic care. The reception is welcoming and the clinical spaces are designed for clear conversations between doctor and patient, underscoring the clinic’s emphasis on thoughtful diagnosis and treatment planning. On-site services span diagnostics, basic orthopedic care, physiotherapy planning, and comprehensive surgical coordination — all aimed at supporting patients through their journey.

The clinic serves as the base for Dr. Ponnanna KM, an Orthopedic Surgeon in Bangalore whose credentials extend from India to international fellowship training. Dr. Ponnanna completed his Master of Surgery in Orthopaedics at SDM College of Medical Sciences and Hospital and subsequently earned his DNB in Orthopaedics in 2015 — credentials that form a solid academic foundation.

His pursuit of clinical excellence led him to further training under renowned mentors, including a fellowship in Adult Reconstruction Surgery focusing on shoulder, hip, and knee procedures. Additional international exposure, such as the Australian Orthopaedic Association fellowship, has expanded his expertise in sports medicine, arthroscopy, and advanced joint replacement techniques. Today, Dr. Ponnanna is recognised by peers and patients alike as one of the Best Orthopedic Doctors in Bangalore, grounded not only in technical precision but in clear, compassionate communication with those in his care.

Surgical procedures, particularly those involving artificial joint implantation, are performed in coordinated hospital settings — including partnerships with Sparsh Hospital — where advanced robotic technology and standard surgical infrastructure support optimal outcomes. The clinic serves as the beginning and end point for patient consultations and follow-ups, streamlining care from initial assessment through recovery planning.

What Is Robotic Knee Replacement Surgery?

Robotic-assisted knee replacement fundamentally alters how traditional knee replacement surgery is approached. Instead of relying solely on manual estimations, the procedure uses advanced imaging to generate a detailed 3D model of the patient’s knee anatomy. During surgery, a robotic system guides the surgeon’s instruments with real-time feedback, enabling exceptionally precise alignment and placement of the knee implant.

According to Dr. Ponnanna, this combination of human clinical judgement and robotic precision can improve the fit and function of prosthetic components, potentially leading to a more natural gait and longer implant lifespan. For patients with osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or structural deformities, robot-assisted surgery can offer a tailored solution where standard techniques may fall short.

Benefits and Risks of the Treatment

Benefits

During our conversation, Dr. Ponnanna outlined several key benefits that have emerged in robotic knee replacement:

Enhanced Precision: The robotic system assists the surgeon in achieving optimal positioning of implants tailored to a patient’s unique anatomy.
Personalised Surgery: Preoperative planning with 3D imaging allows for more individualised surgical strategies.
Reduced Trauma: Smaller incisions and reduced disruption of surrounding tissues can translate to less pain, quicker mobilisation, and smoother early recovery.
Improved Joint Function: Better alignment may contribute to more natural movement post-surgery and increased patient satisfaction over traditional methods.

Risks

No surgical procedure is without potential downsides, and robotic knee replacement is no exception. Dr. Ponnanna emphasised a balanced view:

Infection and Bleeding: These remain standard surgical risks, managed through established protocols.
Joint Stiffness or Persistent Pain: Some patients may experience stiffness or discomfort even after surgery.
Implant Issues: Though less common with precise robotic placement, loosening or mechanical issues can occur over time.
Anesthesia Reactions: As with any major surgery, reactions to anesthesia are possible.

Dr. Ponnanna reminded me that thorough clinical assessment and careful candidacy selection are essential — even highly advanced techniques have limitations based on an individual’s overall health and specific knee pathology.

Approximate Cost Range

While precise figures for robotic knee replacement at Opera Bone and Joint Clinic depend on individual factors such as implant choice, the extent of surgery (one knee versus both), hospital charges, and post-operative care needs, broader data from Bangalore suggests that robotic knee replacement procedures often fall within a mid-to-higher price band compared with traditional surgeries.

Citywide cost estimates indicate a range that broadly reflects the technological complexity involved. These are general figures gathered from multiple centres in Bangalore:

Robotic total knee replacement procedures may range from several lakhs per knee, influenced by implant selection and facility level.
Traditional surgical options typically occupy a slightly lower price band, but may not offer the same level of precision inherent in robot-assisted methods.

Dr. Ponnanna underlined that transparent discussion during preoperative planning is vital, and personalised quotes are best provided after clinical evaluation.

Precautions and Aftercare: Clinical Guidance

Precautions before surgery centre around thorough medical screening:

Complete Evaluation: A detailed history, physical exam, and imaging ensure suitability for robotic surgery and help rule out medical contraindications.
Medication Review: Adjustments to blood thinners or other medicines may be needed before surgery.
Lifestyle Preparation: Smoking cessation and physical conditioning are often recommended to enhance recovery prospects.

Aftercare forms a significant part of successful outcomes:

Physical Therapy: It is essential for restoring strength, flexibility, and confidence in the operated knee.
Wound Care: Keeping the surgical site clean and dry supports healing and reduces infection risk.
Follow-Up Appointments: Regular monitoring helps detect any early issues and adjust rehabilitation protocols as needed.

Dr. Ponnanna emphasised that recovery is an active process — engagement with therapy and adherence to medical guidance are as important as the surgical technique itself.

Reflective Close: Medical Innovation and Patient-Centred Care

My visit to Opera Bone and Joint Clinic with Dr. Ponnanna KM offered a panoramic view of how robotic knee replacement surgery in Bangalore is evolving from cutting-edge technology into a practical option for appropriate candidates. Combining scientific precision, thoughtful clinical judgment, and personalised follow-up, this approach reflects how modern orthopedics strives to align innovation with real patient needs.

Thoughtful CTA:

Let’s move toward mobility with informed, thoughtful care. Serving you from Opera Bone and Joint Clinic , Bangalore, in collaboration with Sparsh Hospital in Bangalore for surgical support. Have a query or want to explore your options? We are just a call away.