Comparing robotic and conventional knee replacement surgeries

Conventional vs. Robotic-Assisted Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Prospective, Randomized Trial of Clinical, Functional, and Radiographic Outcomes

NA · Columbia University · NCT03519269

This study tests if robotic knee replacement surgery works better than traditional knee surgery for people aged 40 to 85 with severe knee arthritis.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment86 (estimated)
Ages40 Years to 85 Years
SexAll
SponsorColumbia University (other)
Locations1 site (New York, New York)
Trial IDNCT03519269 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study evaluates the effectiveness of robotic-assisted total knee arthroplasty (TKA) compared to conventional TKA in patients aged 40 to 85 with end-stage knee osteoarthritis. The aim is to determine if the robotic approach can improve surgical accuracy and patient outcomes. Participants will receive the same postoperative care and implants, and their outcomes will be assessed through clinical evaluations and imaging. The study seeks to address the potential advantages of newer robotic technology in knee surgery.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals aged 40 to 85 with end-stage knee osteoarthritis who have not responded to at least 12 weeks of nonoperative management.

Not a fit: Patients with a history of inflammatory arthritis, prior knee surgeries, or significant deformities may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved surgical outcomes and reduced complications for patients undergoing knee replacement surgery.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown success with robotic-assisted techniques in partial knee replacements, but this specific application for total knee replacements is still being evaluated.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* age between 40 and 85
* body mass index (BMI) less than 40.0 kg/m\^2
* end-stage knee osteoarthritis (Kellgren and Lawrence grade 4)
* failure of a minimum 12 weeks of nonoperative management
* English fluency

Exclusion Criteria:

* history of inflammatory arthropathy in the same knee
* history of prior open knee surgery in the same knee
* history of prior osteotomy or periarticular fracture
* deformity \> 15 degrees from a neutral mechanical axis
* gross ligamentous incompetence of the medial or lateral collateral ligaments
* musculoskeletal involvement beyond unilateral knee osteoarthritis significantly limiting their function
* unwillingness or inability to participate in the proposed study protocol and follow-up

Where this trial is running

New York, New York

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.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Osteoarthritis, Knee, total knee replacement, robotic surgery

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.