A new analysis of 1,470 people who had robotic-assisted total knee replacement found that aligning the new joint to match each person's natural leg shape (kinematic alignment) may lead to better outcomes than the traditional straight alignment (mechanical alignment). The study combined results from several earlier trials and observational studies.
People who received kinematic alignment reported less pain in the first six months after surgery and had better scores on knee function and awareness of the joint. They also had slightly more range of motion. The differences were small to moderate in size.
The analysis looked at results up to about six months after surgery. It did not report on safety issues or complications. Because the studies included were a mix of randomized trials and observational research, the findings show a link, not proof that one method causes better outcomes.
These results are promising, but they are based on short-term data. Longer studies are needed to see if the benefits last and if there are any downsides over time. The findings apply only to robotic-assisted knee replacement, not to traditional surgery.