Patient Perception of Robotic Total Hip Arthroplasty: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

Introduction: Total hip arthroplasty (THA) is one of the most commonly performed orthopedic surgeries, at a prevalence of around 0.8% in the United States. Robotic-assisted technology has the goal of optimizing outcomes by improving acetabular cup positioning, center of hip rotation, and more. Patient perceptions regarding this procedure are not clearly delineated in the literature; therefore, the purpose of this study was to assess why patients choose to undergo robotic-assisted THA and whether they would recommend a similar procedure. Methods: All patients who underwent robotic-assisted THA between May 31, 2017 and December 13, 2018 were given a 12-question survey to complete. The final cohort consisted of 51 patients composed of 32 men and 19 women with a mean age of 67 years (range, 40 to 84 years). All de-identified surveys were evaluated for assessment. Results: Ninety-two percent would recommend robotic-assisted THA as opposed to conventional THA, with 70% stating the main influencer in their decision was physician input. 68 percent believed they would achieve better outcomes with robotic THA as opposed to their conventional counterparts. Seventy-two percent thought their components would be placed in a more optimal position using robotics. 49% believed they would have less pain with robotic-assisted THA. However, most patients stated they believe they would have no difference in length-of-stay or infection risk compared to manual THA. 53 percent of patients stated there would be similar operating room time between robotic and manual THA. Discussion: The majority of our cohort believed there were benefits to undergoing robotic-assisted THA. Physician input was the major contributing factor. Larger prospective studies in the future with less limitations should evaluate how attitudes and beliefs may influence patient-reported satisfaction and outcomes post-operatively.