Robotic-arm assisted versus manual total hip arthroplasty: Systematic review and meta-analysis of radiographic accuracy.

BACKGROUND

We systematically reviewed the radiological outcomes of studies comparing robotic-assisted (RA-THA) and manual total hip arthroplasty (mTHA).

METHODS

The PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane databases were queried from 1994-2021 for articles comparing radiographic outcomes between RA-THA and mTHA cohorts. A meta-analysis was conducted whenever sufficient data was present for common outcomes.

RESULTS

Our analysis included 20 articles reporting on 4140 patients (RA-THA: n = 1228; mTHA: n = 2912). No differences were demonstrated for acetabular inclination or anteversion. However, RA-THA demonstrated higher rates of cup orientation within the Lewinnek and Callanan safe zones, improved femoral stem alignment, and lower global offset difference (GOD) and limb length discrepancy (all p-values <0.05). Superior femoral canal fill and combined offset were seen among RA-THA patients.

CONCLUSION

Our review found that the use of RA-THA yields superior radiographic outcomes compared to mTHA counterparts. This information can inform healthcare systems considering investing in and implementing these technologies.