**No More Going Abroad: Cyprus Public Hospitals Now Offer Robotic Knee and Hip Surgery**
In a significant advancement for healthcare in Cyprus, public hospitals have begun offering robotic-assisted orthopaedic surgery, marking a pivotal moment for patients seeking knee and hip procedures. The State Health Services Organisation (SHSO) has installed the CORI Robotic-Assisted Surgery system, developed by Smith+Nephew, at Nicosia General Hospital. This new technology is now operational at the hospital's Orthopaedic Clinic, enabling patients to receive high-precision surgical care without the need to travel abroad.
The introduction of robotic-assisted surgery is expected to enhance the quality of care available within the public health system. The SHSO highlighted that this development allows for procedures such as unicompartmental and total knee arthroplasty, revision knee surgery, and hip arthroplasty to be performed locally. This is particularly beneficial for patients who previously had to seek treatment overseas, often incurring significant costs and logistical challenges.
Robotic-assisted orthopaedic surgery has gained recognition internationally as a core surgical tool due to its numerous advantages. The SHSO noted that the technology offers increased precision, individualized surgical planning, and improved functional outcomes for patients. The CORI system is designed to map a patient's anatomy in real time, eliminating the need for pre-operative CT or MRI scans. This feature not only reduces radiation exposure but also accelerates the preparation process for surgery.
One of the standout capabilities of the CORI system is its ability to dynamically assess ligament stability and balance during the procedure. Additionally, it allows for virtual implant placement before any bone resections are made, ensuring that the surgical approach is tailored to each patient's unique anatomy. This shift from a standardized to an individualized surgical method is a key aspect of the new technology, as emphasized by the SHSO.
The organisation explained that the philosophy behind this method involves using advanced sensors, motion recording systems, and real-time digital planning. While the robotic system enhances precision, the orthopaedic surgeon remains central to the process. Surgeons are responsible for designing and determining the individualized surgical plan, which is then executed with robotic assistance. This ensures a high degree of safety and accuracy during the operation.
The benefits of robotic-assisted surgery for patients are substantial. According to the SHSO, patients can expect increased accuracy in implant placement, better joint alignment and stability, a reduced risk of needing revision surgery, faster recovery times, and improved overall functionality. Furthermore, access to such advanced technology within the public health system represents a significant leap forward in the quality of care available to Cypriots.
As the healthcare landscape in Cyprus continues to evolve, the introduction of robotic-assisted orthopaedic surgery is a promising development that underscores the commitment of the SHSO to enhance patient care and outcomes. With this new capability, patients can now receive cutting-edge surgical interventions locally, reducing the need for overseas treatment and making advanced healthcare more accessible to the population.
This initiative not only reflects advancements in medical technology but also highlights the growing importance of individualized patient care in modern medicine. As more public hospitals adopt similar technologies, the future of healthcare in Cyprus looks increasingly promising for those in need of orthopaedic procedures.