Question 1

What Is the VELYS™ System?

Accepted Answer

VELYS is a robotic-assisted surgical technology developed by DePuy Synthes — one of the world's leading orthopaedic companies. It is designed to support the surgeon in planning and performing total knee replacement with enhanced accuracy, using a combination of pre-operative planning and real-time intraoperative guidance.

The system creates a personalised surgical plan based on each patient's individual anatomy. During the procedure, VELYS provides continuous real-time data and feedback, helping to ensure the knee implant is positioned precisely in line with that plan — adapting dynamically as the surgery progresses.

Question 2

What is the difference between robotic-assisted and conventional knee replacement?

Accepted Answer

In conventional knee replacement, the surgeon uses mechanical guides and clinical judgement to align and position the implant. In robotic-assisted surgery, a plan is created based on the patient's individual anatomy, and the VELYS system provides real-time guidance during the procedure to help ensure the implant is placed with precision. The surgical steps are broadly the same — the difference lies in the tools used to execute them with consistent accuracy.

Question 3

What is the Role of the Surgeon?

Accepted Answer

VELYS does not perform surgery independently at any stage of the procedure. Mr Kosuge remains entirely in control throughout the procedure. The technology acts as a sophisticated assistive tool — providing objective data and precision guidance that supports his decision-making, without replacing it. The judgement, technique, and experience of the surgeon remain central to the outcome. Every surgical decision is made by Mr Kosuge.

Question 4

What Are the Benefits?

Accepted Answer

The potential advantages of robotic assistance in knee replacement centre on the accuracy with which the implant is placed. When an implant is correctly aligned to a patient's individual anatomy and biomechanics, the result can potentially feel more natural, function better, and can be associated with less post-operative discomfort.

Question 5

Is robotic knee replacement safer than traditional knee replacement?

Accepted Answer

Both robotic-assisted and conventional knee replacement, when performed by an experienced surgeon, have excellent safety records. Robotic assistance is designed to enhance the precision of implant placement, which may reduce the risk of certain complications associated with implant malalignment. As with any surgical technique, the overall safety profile depends on individual patient factors, which Mr Kosuge will discuss in detail at consultation.

Question 6

Will robotic knee replacement affect my recovery time?

Accepted Answer

Recovery after VELYS-assisted surgery follows a broadly similar pathway to conventional knee replacement — involving physiotherapy, graduated activity, and a return to normal life over three to six months. Your individual recovery plan will be discussed in detail with you by Mr Kosuge before your procedure.

Question 7

Is VELYS™ Right for You?

Accepted Answer

Mr Kosuge uses VELYS selectively rather than for every knee. He recommends it in particular when the alignment of the leg is unusual, for example after a previous fracture or where there is metalwork in the thigh bone, because in these situations the standard alignment guides placed inside the bone cannot be used. You can also ask for robotic-assisted surgery. Mr Kosuge will explain what it can and cannot offer in your case, so you can decide together. Where the conventional approach is more appropriate, that will always be his recommendation.

Question 8

Is robotic-assisted knee replacement covered by insurance, and does it cost more?

Accepted Answer

Robotic-assisted knee replacement is usually covered by private medical insurance, but please check with your insurer before your operation. For self-pay patients it costs more than a conventional knee replacement. See the Fees page for how self-pay packages work.

Question 9

Where in Essex and Hertfordshire is VELYS robotic knee replacement available?

Accepted Answer

Mr Kosuge offers VELYS robotic-assisted total knee replacement at The Rivers Hospital, Sawbridgeworth, Hertfordshire — a purpose-built private hospital with dedicated orthopaedic facilities. The hospital is conveniently located for patients across Essex and Hertfordshire, including Harlow, Bishop's Stortford, Chelmsford, Epping, and surrounding areas.