Quality-of-life outcomes and influencing factors following robotic-assisted versus manual total knee arthroplasty: a comparative analysis.

PURPOSE

This study aimed to compare quality of life and functional outcomes in patients undergoing robotic-assisted versus manual total knee arthroplasty (TKA), and to identify key factors influencing these outcomes.

METHODS

This cross-sectional comparative study included that 116 patients who underwent unilateral TKA 60 with robotic assistance and 56 with manual technique were included. Patients who were 18 years of age or older, who did not have a diagnosis of psychiatric illness, and who underwent a single knee replacement surgery were included in the study. Data were collected using the EuroQol Five-Dimensional Five-Level (EQ-5D-5L), Oxford Knee Score (OKS) and a structured data collection form from patients who came to the outpatient clinic for follow-up at the sixth postoperative week. All patients in the groups were operated on by the same physicians and received standard perioperative care.

RESULTS

A statistically significant difference was found in the educational level between the two groups (p < 0.001), while other demographic characteristics were comparable (p > 0.05). No significant difference was observed between groups in OKS, EQ-5D-5L index scores, or EQ-VAS at 6 weeks postoperatively (p > 0.05). Regression analysis revealed that experiencing the postoperative problems of the patients was the strongest predictor of reduced OKS (R = 0.160), EQ-5D-5L (Adjusted R = 0.154), and EQ-VAS scores (R = 0.168), regardless of the surgical technique.

CONCLUSIONS

There was no statistically significant difference in functional outcomes or quality of life between robotic-assisted and manual total knee arthroplasty. However, the postoperative problems of the patients emerged as a key determinant negatively influencing patient-reported outcomes across both groups.