Robotic hip arthroscopy in human anatomy.
BACKGROUND
Robotic technology offers technical advantages that might offer new solutions for hip arthroscopy.


METHODS
Two hip arthroscopies were performed in human cadavers using the da Vinci surgical system. During both surgeries, a robotic camera and 5 or 8 mm da Vinci trocars with instruments were inserted into the hip joint for manipulation.


RESULTS
Introduction of cameras and working instruments, docking of the robotic system and instrument manipulation was successful in both cases. The long articulating area of 5 mm instruments limited movements inside the joint; an 8 mm instrument with a shorter area of articulation offered an improved range of motion.


CONCLUSIONS
Hip arthroscopy using the da Vinci standard system appears a feasible alternative to standard arthroscopy. Instruments and method of application must be modified and improved before routine clinical application but further research in this area seems justified, considering the clinical value of such an approach.
Kather
Jens
J
Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Traumatology, General Hospital Muensterlingen, Switzerland. jens.kather@stgag.ch
Hagen
Monika E
ME
Morel
Philippe
P
Fasel
Jean
J
Markar
Sheraz
S
Schueler
Michael
M
D001182:Arthroscopy / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods*; D002102:Cadaver; D005260:Female; D006621:Hip Joint / Q000033:anatomy & histology* / Q000601:surgery*; D006801:Humans; D007866:Leg; D008297:Male; D009985:Orthopedics / Q000379:methods; D010781:Photography / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods; D016059:Range of Motion, Articular; D012371:Robotics / Q000295:instrumentation* / Q000379:methods*; D012775:Shoes