Robotic-assisted Versus Conventional Total Hip Arthroplasty: A Systematic Review of Clinical and Radiographic Outcomes.

Abstract

Objectives: Hip osteoarthritis is a growing global health burden with an increasing demand for total hip arthroplasty (THA), particularly among older populations. Robotic-assisted THA (RATHA) has emerged as a technological advancement that may improve precision, implant alignment, and potentially patient outcomes compared with conventional THA (COTHA). This systematic review aimed to compare the clinical and radiological outcomes of RATHA and COTHA.

Methods: A systematic search was conducted from PubMed, Scopus, and Cochrane Library inception until 31 August 2024, adhering to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. The inclusion criteria were randomized controlled trials, retrospective studies, prospective studies, and cohort studies that compared RATHA with COTHA. Exclusion criteria were case reports, case series, abstracts, review articles, systematic reviews, meta-analyses, biomechanical or cadaveric studies, studies on revision THA or high-grade hip dysplasia, and non-English publications. Data were extracted and assessed using the Covidence systematic review software and the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool. The primary outcomes were clinical outcomes measured by patient-reported outcome measures. The secondary outcomes were operative outcomes, complications, and radiological assessment.

Results: Nine studies met the inclusion criteria, representing populations from Asia, the USA, the UK, and Italy. A total of 933 patients were assessed, 467 of whom underwent RATHA. No significant differences observed in patient-reported outcome measures. COTHA had shorter operative times, whereas RATHA showed potential in reducing hospital stays. RATHA demonstrated improved radiological outcomes, particularly in implant alignment; however, no significant differences were observed in complication rates.

Conclusions: RATHA offers advantages in radiological precision but provides clinical outcomes similar to those of COTHA in terms of patient satisfaction and complications. Further high-quality trials are required to assess the long-term benefits of RATHA.