VELYS™ Robotic-Assisted Knee Replacement
Total knee replacement is one of the most effective operations in orthopaedic surgery. The introduction of robotic assistance has taken the precision and personalisation of this procedure a step further — Mr Kosuge is now offering VELYS™ robotic-assisted total knee replacement at The Rivers Hospital, Sawbridgeworth.
Frequently Asked Questions about VELYS™ Robotic-Assisted Knee Replacements
What is the difference between robotic-assisted and conventional knee replacement?
What is the Role of the Surgeon?
Is robotic knee replacement safer than traditional knee replacement?
Will robotic knee replacement affect my recovery time?
Where in Essex and Hertfordshire is VELYS robotic knee replacement available?
What Is the VELYS™ System?
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.
What is the difference between robotic-assisted and conventional knee replacement?
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.
What is the Role of the Surgeon?
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.
What Are the Benefits?
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 typically feels more natural, functions better, and is associated with less post-operative discomfort.
Is robotic knee replacement safer than traditional knee replacement?
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.
Will robotic knee replacement affect my recovery time?
Published evidence suggests that patients undergoing robotic-assisted knee replacement may experience shorter hospital stays and improved mobility in the early post-operative period compared to conventional surgery. 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.
Is VELYS™ Right for You?
Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.
VELYS-assisted surgery is suitable for the majority of patients requiring total knee replacement. Whether it is the right approach for you will depend on your anatomy, the extent of joint damage, and your overall health — all of which Mr Kosuge will assess at your consultation. Where the conventional approach remains more appropriate for a specific patient, that will always be Mr Kosuge’s recommendation.
Where in Essex and Hertfordshire is VELYS robotic knee replacement available?
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.
Book a Consultation
VELYS robotic-assisted knee replacement is available to patients at The Rivers Hospital, Sawbridgeworth — a purpose-built private hospital with dedicated orthopaedic facilities.
To find out whether VELYS robotic-assisted knee replacement is the right option for you, book an initial consultation with Mr Kosuge.
To book an appointment, please call 01279 602675 or use the online booking link below.