Community Health: Robot Assisted Joint Replacement
May 19, 2022
We recorded today's conversation on location at Warren Memorial Hospital with Mesfin Shibeshi DO, fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon and Grace Speicher, Program and Operations Manager, Valley Health Orthopaedic Clinics, Southern Region.
Dr. Shibeshi shared his knowledge and experience with respect to robot-assisted total knee replacement. Using this technology, Dr. Shibeshi is able to create a 3D model of a patient’s knee before surgery, allowing for precise planning of incisions and implant placement. The robotic surgical technology offers a level of personalization and precision that can limit soft tissue damage, preserve bone and reduce post-surgical pain for some patients.
Dr. Shibeshi is using this technology to aid in same-day total knee reconstruction procedures at Warren Memorial Hospital, the first Valley Health hospital to earn the Gold Seal of Approval® for Total Knee Replacement and Total Hip Replacement Certification from The Joint Commission.
Grace explained why certification is important. Certification keeps everyone focused on providing high quality patient care by providing:
- Patient Education- patients are prepared for their total joint journey. This is accomplished by distributing a total joint book to each patient, along with teaching what to expect prior, during, and after surgery. This is a collaborative effort with the surgeon, nursing, therapy and case management involvement.
- Early Ambulation and Pain Control- Studies have shown the sooner a patient ambulates the better their recovery. In order to accomplish this, pain must be controlled. In an effort to keep narcotic use at a minimum, they have what is called a multimodal approach which includes a block placed by the anesthesia team during the surgical process, along with a periarticular injection placed by the surgeon. This approach allows for a longer pain control with less need for oral pain pills. This is easier on the patient’s stomach, as well as less of a threat for narcotic dependence.
Practice Office in Front Royal:
Valley Health’s Orthopedics practice in Front Royal is located in the multispecialty clinic on the campus of Warren Memorial Hospital. Dr. Shibeshi sees patients in clinic there, and performs procedures in the OR at Warren Memorial Hospital. Info about the clinic can be found here: Orthopedic Care in Front Royal | Valley Health (valleyhealthlink.com)
More information about the robotics and certifications can be found here:
Two Valley Health Hospitals Add Robotic Technology for Knee Replacement
Warren Memorial Hospital Earns Gold Seal of Approval for Total Hip and Knee Replacement Program