Robotic Knee Replacement
at Aster MIMS Kannur
Your knee is unique. Your surgery should be planned around it. The CORI Surgical System builds a live 3D map of your knee, helping Dr. Vishnu plan implant position, assess ligament balance and guide bone preparation with your anatomy in view.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Vishnu Baburaj, MS Ortho (PGI Chandigarh), MRCS (UK) · Last updated July 2026
What is the CORI Surgical System?
The CORI Surgical System, developed by Smith+Nephew, supports the surgeon during knee replacement. It creates a three-dimensional map from your knee anatomy during surgery, without requiring a pre-operative CT scan for its planning. The surgeon can use this map to adjust the plan during the procedure.
Every knee is different. The CORI system helps me see those differences in three dimensions, measure balance and refine the surgical plan as I work.
Dr. Vishnu BaburajReal-time 3D bone mapping
The surgeon maps the bone surfaces during surgery to build a three-dimensional model. CORI uses this model and real-time tracking to support planning and bone preparation, without requiring a pre-operative CT scan for its planning.
Surgeon-controlled precision
The robot assists; the surgeon decides. Every cut, every angle, every implant position is controlled by Dr. Vishnu. CORI provides guidance and feedback, but it is a precision instrument in the surgeon's hands, not an autonomous system performing the procedure.
Established implant systems
The implant and method of fixation are selected around your knee anatomy, bone quality and activity needs. Ask which implant is proposed, why it suits you and what its follow-up evidence shows. Robotic assistance alone does not establish implant longevity.
Robotic vs Conventional Knee Replacement
Both approaches aim to relieve arthritis pain and improve function. CORI adds a digital plan and real-time feedback to support bone preparation and balancing. Conventional surgery uses mechanical guides and the surgeon's assessment. The choice should consider your knee, the surgeon's experience and the additional costs and risks of robotic assistance.
Robotic-Assisted TKR
CORI SystemImplant position planned using a live 3D map of your knee
Digital gap assessment supports the surgeon's ligament balancing
Real-time tracking helps the surgeon follow and adjust the plan
Bone preparation tailored to patient-specific anatomy in real time
Evidence note: Robotic assistance supports planning and alignment, but has additional considerations, including cost and risks related to navigation pins. Better technical measurements do not guarantee better pain relief or a longer-lasting implant. Read the AAOS patient overview and the CORI technical overview.
Who is a candidate for robotic knee replacement?
Robotic-assisted knee replacement is suitable for patients with end-stage knee arthritis who have not responded to conservative treatment. The following conditions are commonly treated with this procedure at Aster MIMS Kannur.
Primary Osteoarthritis
The most common indication. Wear-and-tear arthritis causing bone-on-bone contact, persistent pain, and progressive loss of mobility despite medications and physiotherapy.
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Inflammatory arthritis that destroys the joint lining and cartilage. When pain and disability from joint damage persist despite medical treatment, replacement may improve pain and function. Ongoing care for the inflammatory disease remains important.
Post-Traumatic Arthritis
Arthritis developing years after a significant knee injury such as a tibial plateau fracture or ligament injury. The damaged joint surface progressively deteriorates, leading to end-stage disease.
Valgus or Varus Deformity
Knock-knee or bow-leg deformity caused by asymmetric cartilage loss. Robotic assistance is especially valuable here, as precise ligament balancing is critical for correcting the alignment.
Stiff Knee
Severe loss of range of motion from advanced arthritis or previous surgery. Robotic planning supports implant positioning; the degree of movement regained also depends on pre-existing stiffness and rehabilitation.
Avascular Necrosis
Loss of blood supply to the bone around the knee, leading to collapse of the joint surface. When the damage is extensive, total knee replacement is the definitive solution.
Not sure if you qualify?
Send us your X-rays or MRI and we will assess your suitability.
Ask on WhatsAppFrom consultation to recovery
Assessment and planning
Your journey begins with a thorough clinical examination and weight-bearing X-rays. Dr. Vishnu assesses the extent of cartilage damage, deformity, ligament integrity, and your functional goals. If surgery is appropriate, a detailed plan is developed. Pre-operative blood work and cardiac clearance are completed, and your questions are addressed before any decision is made.
Surgery day with CORI
During surgery, CORI maps your knee anatomy and tracks the instruments. Dr. Vishnu uses the live 3D model to plan and guide bone preparation, assess ligament balance and position the implant. The anaesthetic plan and time needed depend on your health and the complexity of the procedure.
Early mobilisation
Within hours of surgery, a physiotherapist assists you to sit up and begin gentle knee exercises. Most patients walk with a frame or walker within 24 hours. Our multimodal pain management protocol combines nerve blocks, anti-inflammatory medication, and targeted analgesics to keep you comfortable without heavy sedation. Early movement is central to a strong recovery.
Discharge and rehabilitation
Before discharge, the team reviews your wound, mobility and support at home and explains your exercises and follow-up plan. Physiotherapy guides the transition from walking aids to independent movement. Driving should wait until you can control the vehicle safely, are no longer taking sedating pain medicines and have been cleared by your surgeon.
Assessment and planning
Your journey begins with a thorough clinical examination and weight-bearing X-rays. Dr. Vishnu assesses the extent of cartilage damage, deformity, ligament integrity, and your functional goals. If surgery is appropriate, a detailed plan is developed. Pre-operative blood work and cardiac clearance are completed, and your questions are addressed before any decision is made.
Surgery day with CORI
During surgery, CORI maps your knee anatomy and tracks the instruments. Dr. Vishnu uses the live 3D model to plan and guide bone preparation, assess ligament balance and position the implant. The anaesthetic plan and time needed depend on your health and the complexity of the procedure.
Early mobilisation
Within hours of surgery, a physiotherapist assists you to sit up and begin gentle knee exercises. Most patients walk with a frame or walker within 24 hours. Our multimodal pain management protocol combines nerve blocks, anti-inflammatory medication, and targeted analgesics to keep you comfortable without heavy sedation. Early movement is central to a strong recovery.
Discharge and rehabilitation
Before discharge, the team reviews your wound, mobility and support at home and explains your exercises and follow-up plan. Physiotherapy guides the transition from walking aids to independent movement. Driving should wait until you can control the vehicle safely, are no longer taking sedating pain medicines and have been cleared by your surgeon.
Why Aster MIMS Kannur?
Aster MIMS Kannur is an NABH-accredited multispecialty hospital and part of the Aster DM Healthcare network, one of the largest integrated healthcare providers in the Middle East and India. The orthopaedic department operates a dedicated joint replacement suite equipped with the CORI robotic system, laminar airflow theatres, and a rapid recovery programme designed to get you home sooner.
Request an appointmentNABH Accredited
National Accreditation Board for Hospitals certification, verifying adherence to patient safety and quality standards across every department.
Dedicated Joint Replacement Suite
Laminar airflow operating theatre with the CORI robotic system permanently installed. Infection prevention and theatre safety remain essential parts of joint replacement care.
Rapid Recovery Protocol
Multimodal analgesia, early mobilisation from Day 0, and structured physiotherapy. Designed to minimise hospital stay and accelerate your return to independence.
Continuous Post-Operative Support
WhatsApp access to the surgical team throughout recovery. Scheduled video follow-ups for patients who cannot visit in person. Your care does not end at discharge.
What does robotic knee replacement cost?
Quoted individually
The total depends on the implant or fixation used, room category, any associated procedures, and length of stay. You receive a written estimate before any decision is made.
Insurance & cashless
Most major insurers cover surgery at Aster MIMS Kannur. Cashless admission and pre-authorisation assistance are available; the insurance desk confirms your policy coverage before admission.
Get a written estimate
Send your reports on WhatsApp and receive a personalised estimate, with no obligation.
Request EstimateWhat does recovery actually look like?
Walk through the knee replacement timeline phase by phase, robotic included: how it feels, what to work on, and when to call us.
Travelling from outside India?
The CORI Surgical System is available at Aster MIMS Kannur. Suitability, implant choice, medical fitness, travel and rehabilitation are considered together for each patient. Start with a provisional review of your existing records before making travel arrangements.
Robotic knee replacement FAQ
Is the robot performing my surgery?
No. The CORI system is a precision tool controlled entirely by Dr. Vishnu. He makes every decision during the procedure. The robot provides real-time 3D bone mapping and guided positioning, but the surgeon controls every cut and every placement. Think of it as GPS for knee surgery: the system provides the map, while the surgeon drives.
How much does robotic knee replacement cost?
The cost varies based on implant choice, whether one or both knees are being replaced, and your specific clinical needs. Robotic knee replacement at Aster MIMS Kannur is priced competitively and is significantly more affordable than comparable procedures in the UK, US, or Middle East. Contact us via WhatsApp or the appointment form for a personalised cost estimate.
Do I need a CT scan before surgery?
CORI does not require a pre-operative CT scan to create its surgical plan. The knee is mapped during the operation. You will still need the imaging and pre-operative assessment appropriate to your condition; your surgeon will explain whether any additional scans are needed.
What is the recovery time?
Supported walking often begins on the day of surgery or the following day, depending on your health and recovery. Discharge, driving and return to work are individual decisions. Daily activities improve over the following weeks, while strength and confidence develop over several months. Robotic assistance does not remove the need for rehabilitation or guarantee faster recovery.
Is there an age limit?
There is no strict age limit. Suitability is determined by the severity of your arthritis, overall health, and functional goals rather than age alone. Dr. Vishnu has performed knee replacements on patients ranging from their early 50s to their late 80s. A thorough pre-operative assessment including cardiac and anaesthetic evaluation ensures that surgery is safe for you.
Can both knees be done at the same time?
Yes, bilateral (both knees) robotic knee replacement can be performed in a single sitting for suitable patients. This is assessed on a case-by-case basis depending on your overall fitness, cardiac health, and the severity of arthritis in each knee. Simultaneous bilateral replacement means one anaesthetic, one hospital stay, and one rehabilitation period instead of two.
Which implant brands are used?
The CORI system is made by Smith+Nephew. Your surgeon will explain the compatible implant proposed for your knee, its fixation and the evidence relevant to that implant. Implant lifespan varies with the implant, surgery, activity, health and follow-up. Robotic assistance does not guarantee longer implant survival.
Robotic Knee Replacement, Your Questions Answered
What "robotic" really means, who qualifies, and what recovery looks like, in Dr. Vishnu's own words.
Your First Week After Total Knee Replacement
Day-by-day recovery guide covering pain management, early walking, home setup, and when to call your surgeon.
Knee Replacement for Diabetic Patients
HbA1c thresholds, medication adjustments, infection risk, and what makes diabetic knee replacement different.