VELYS Robotic Knee Replacement

VELYS™ Robotic-Assisted Solution is a surgical technology developed by DePuy Synthes (Johnson & Johnson) designed to assist surgeons during total knee replacement (TKA) and now also unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (partial knee replacement) procedures. It uses a robotic platform to guide and assist the surgeon’s actions, helping to achieve highly accurate implant placement and balanced joint function.

Unlike some older robotic systems, VELYS is imageless — meaning it does not typically require pre-operative CT scans. Instead, it maps the knee in real time using sensors and optical tracking during surgery to create a dynamic model of the joint.

Key Features of VELYS Technology

  • Surgeon-controlled assistance: The surgeon remains fully in charge — the robot helps guide cuts and instrument positioning rather than operating autonomously.

  • Adaptive tracking and precision guidance: High-speed cameras and tracking systems monitor bone and soft-tissue structures to help ensure accurate resections and alignment.

  • Real-time planning & balancing: Tools like ACCUBALANCE™ help surgeons assess joint alignment and soft-tissue balance through the range of motion during surgery.

  • Works with modern implant systems: For example, VELYS integrates with the ATTUNE™ Knee System, known for improved joint stability and outcomes.

Potential Benefits

Robotic-assisted knee replacement with VELYS aims to improve several aspects of traditional knee surgery:

🔹 Greater Precision

The system helps surgeons make precise bone cuts and place implants with greater accuracy, tailored to each patient’s unique anatomy. This has the potential to improve joint alignment and reduce implant wear over time.

🔹 Faster Recovery and Less Pain

Because the procedure can be less invasive and more precise, many patients experience less pain after surgery, shorter hospital stays, and quicker return to daily activities compared with conventional knee replacements.

🔹 Early Functional Improvements

Research indicates that patients receiving VELYS-assisted TKA may have shorter surgical duration, earlier mobility after surgery, reduced length of stay, and improved immediate postoperative outcomes, including psychological wellbeing at six months, compared with conventional approaches.

🔹 Personalised Alignment & Joint Balance

The robot’s ability to gauge soft-tissue tension and joint motion in real time helps tailor the implant fit to each individual, potentially resulting in more natural knee movement.

How It Works (Simplified)

  1. Pre-op planning: The surgeon evaluates the knee and discusses goals with you. VELYS does not usually need a CT scan.

  2. Intra-op mapping: During surgery, cameras and sensors map the knee in real time.

  3. Robotic guidance: The system assists with precise bone cuts and implant positioning based on the plan and live feedback.

  4. Verification: Surgeons verify balance and alignment before final implant placement.

What Patients Should Know

  • Surgeon Expertise Matters: The robot is a tool — the skill and experience of the surgeon are critical for good outcomes.

  • Not Everyone Needs Robotics: Some patients may do just as well with conventional knee replacement. A consultation can help determine what is best for you.

  • Technological Advances Are Ongoing: VELYS continues to evolve with expanded indications (e.g., partial knee replacement) and broader use in markets including Europe and the U.S.