Dr. Raklewicz Performs 1st Knee Replacement Using New System

12/13/2017

WILKES-BARRE, Pa. (Dec. 13, 2017) – Luzerne County’s first robotic-assisted total knee replacement surgery using a new surgical system that provides more precision and accuracy, was performed today at Commonwealth Health Wilkes-Barre General Hospital. Michael Raklewicz, M.D., chief of orthopedic surgery at the hospital, performed the surgery.

The hospital recently purchased the system which allows orthopedic surgeons to combine the latest in total and partial knee replacement procedures with the growing field of robotics. This is the first device of its kind to be used in Luzerne and Lackawanna counties. The system is unique in that it does not require a pre-operative CT scan. Instead, the surgeon collects patient-specific data during the procedure to build a three-dimensional model of the patient’s knee.

To perform the procedure, a handheld robotic-assisted tool is used to position the precisely cut guides exactly as intended, based on the patient-specific data previously collected. This extra layer of precision and accuracy is designed to enable optimal implant placement for better patient outcomes.

Robotic-assisted surgery typically results in smaller incisions and quicker recovery periods.

This new procedure combines two of Wilkes-Barre General Hospital’s longstanding service lines, orthopedics and robotic-assisted surgery.

In July 2014, the hospital was the first facility in Luzerne County to earn certification in hip, knee and shoulder replacement surgery by The Joint Commission, one of the leading agencies for quality and operating standards among health care providers.

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