Precision Meets Preservation: Enhancing Muscle-Sparing Knee Replacement with Robotic Technology

by Kristy Como Armand

Dr. Jonathan Foret Completes Advanced Training for New Approach to Robotic Assisted Joint Replacement

Dr. Jonathan Foret, board-certified orthopaedic surgeon with the Center for Orthopaedics, recently completed advanced training in the subvastus approach for both partial and total knee replacement in combination with the Mako surgeon-controlled robotic arm system. He says this innovative pairing of two proven knee replacement techniques offers significant benefits to patients. The subvastus surgical approach is commonly referred to as a muscle-sparing, or quadriceps-sparing, approach to the knee.

“Muscle-sparing surgical approaches are continuing to evolve, allowing us to replace damaged joints with much less damage to the surrounding tissue,” explains Dr. Foret. “The goal of this type of knee surgery is to protect and preserve muscles, since your muscles provide control and strength to your knees. These structures are also an important factor in regaining motion. We know if we don’t have to cut or detach the muscles around the knee, the patient will have less pain, better motion and a faster recovery.

Dr. Foret says a persistent challenge in knee replacement procedures has been the need to cut into or split apart the quadriceps tendon to allow the surgeon to move the kneecap out of the way to access the joint. “With the subvastus approach, we are able to avoid this cut. Instead, the quadriceps muscle is gently mobilized and lifted to access the knee joint, reducing trauma to surrounding tissues. However, this technique can limit exposure to the joint, which limits a surgeon’s ability to consistently align the cutting guides used in a traditional knee replacement,” says Dr. Foret. “Utilizing the precision and advanced navigation of the Mako robotic system eliminates that problem, allowing the surgeon to work accurately through a muscle-sparing approach.”

The benefits of combining a muscle-sparing approach with the Mako robotic system are numerous, with patients experiencing a quicker, less painful recovery, more natural motion in their knee and a more rapid return to normal activities.

Dr. Foret performs these knee replacement procedures at The Joint Replacement Center of Louisiana, which opened in 2023 and is the only outpatient surgery center in Southwest Louisiana to focus on outpatient joint replacement surgery. The center’s surgical suites feature Mako SmartRobotics™ designed to elevate surgeon control and precise, accurate implant alignment by combining 3D CT-based planning and AccuStop™ haptic technology.

“Combining robotic-assisted precision with the muscle-sparing subvastus approach gives patients the best of advanced surgical technique and technology,” says Dr. Foret. “Our robotic technology enhances accuracy and consistency, while the subvastus technique accelerates healing and mobility. Together, this creates a powerful synergy that minimizes downtime and maximizes recovery. It’s a big step forward for our patients.”

Call the Center for Orthopaedics at 337-721-7236 for more information or visit centerforortho.com.