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Dr. Khabie has found that the robot leads to better outcomes, quicker recover-
ies and happier patients. "We see that the post-op X-rays of patients who've
undergone surgery with the robot look great, compared with those undergoing
conventional surgery," he says. "It makes sense that the technology improves
outcomes, because you're not basing cuts and implant positioning on only what
the naked eye can see."
Worth the expense
Orthopedic robotic systems run about $1 million. Is the technology really worth
that high cost? Dr. Nonweiler argues that better outcomes, shorter recoveries
and quicker cases justify the investment. "It's pricey, no doubt, but once you
really get comfortable using the technology, it reduces operative times," he says.
"Plus, there's the long-term benefit derived from limiting the number of patients
who need joint replacement revisions, experience significant post-op pain or
suffer dislocated joints."
There's also a good chance the technology will attract more patients to your
facility, says Dr. Nonweiler. He notes that his hospital saw a minor loss of mar-
ket share when local hospitals began offering robotic partial knee replacements.
When his hospital acquired a robot and began advertising its use, the caseload
increased.
Study the numbers to decide if a robot is worth the investment. Look at your
current caseload and estimate the number of cases you can expect to see in a
year if you add the robot. "Personally, I don't think it makes much financial sense
for an outpatient facility to buy one unless they are doing 80 to 90 replacements
per year," says Dr. Nonweiler. "That's when you'll likely see a return on your
investment."
A robotic platform's price tag is steep, but you have options when it comes to
paying for it. Consider whether you want to buy the platform outright, lease it or
enter into a capital lease over several years. Once you've decided to make the
