Comparing recovery after robotic and manual knee surgeries

Functional Recovery After Total Knee Arthroplasty

Observational University of Pittsburgh · NCT06821269

This study is testing if patients recover faster and feel better after knee surgery when it's done with robotic assistance compared to traditional manual methods.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment30 (estimated)
Ages40 Years to 90 Years
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Pittsburgh Academic / other
Locations1 site (Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania)
Trial IDNCT06821269 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to evaluate the recovery outcomes of patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty (TKA) using robotic-assisted techniques compared to conventional manual methods. Researchers will assess recovery speed and functional outcomes through questionnaires and physical therapy testing at various timepoints post-surgery. The study seeks to clarify whether robotic-assisted TKA leads to better perceived and functional recovery than manual TKA, addressing gaps in existing research on this topic. By combining patient-reported outcomes and functional test results, the study will provide a comprehensive view of recovery trajectories.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals scheduled for total knee arthroplasty who can understand English and comply with study procedures.

Not a fit: Patients with significant comorbidities, mobility issues, or those planning to relocate during the study may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved recovery protocols for patients undergoing knee surgery, enhancing their overall functional outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown mixed results regarding robotic-assisted versus manual TKA, making this approach both relevant and necessary for further exploration.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Candidate for TKA
* Speak English / understand study instructions--this is necessary to reliably complete the study questionnaires and understand study instructions which are not validated in other languages
* Have medical clearance from PCP, PI, or co-Investigator to participate in the study
* Willing to comply with all study procedures and be available for the duration of the study

Exclusion Criteria:

* 2+ falls in the past year
* Unable to ambulate 100 ft without assistive device or rest period
* Acute illness
* Have a history of cardiovascular disease or hypertension not controlled by medication
* Severe visual impairment
* Lower-extremity amputation
* Neurological, muscular, systemic, or connective tissue disorder affecting the function of the lower extremities
* Pregnant
* Terminal illness
* Plans to have another joint replacement during study period
* Plans to relocate from immediate area during study period

Where this trial is running

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Arthritis Knee
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.