Conway Medical Center Makes History: First in South Carolina to Offer Robotic-Assisted Partial Knee Replacement
Get back to the activities you love with cutting-edge technology right here in the Palmetto State
If knee pain has been holding you back from enjoying life’s simple pleasures—like walking your dog, playing with your grandchildren, or tackling your favorite hiking trail—there’s exciting news on the horizon. Conway Medical Center (CMC) has just made history by becoming the first hospital in South Carolina to offer partial knee replacement surgery using the revolutionary VELYS™ Robotic-Assisted Solution.
What Makes This Such a Big Deal?
Think of your knee like a three-compartment house. Sometimes, arthritis or injury only affects one “room” of your knee, leaving the other two in good condition. Traditional thinking often meant replacing the entire knee—like renovating the whole house when you only need to fix one room. But partial knee replacement, also called Unicompartmental Knee Arthroplasty (UKA), allows surgeons to replace only the damaged compartment while preserving your healthy bone and tissue.
Now, with robotic assistance, this already less-invasive procedure has become even more precise and personalized.
Meet Your Robotic-Assisted Surgery Pioneer
Leading this groundbreaking technology at CMC is Dr. Donovan Johnson with CMC Orthopaedics. Dr. Johnson brings an impressive background to the table—he’s fellowship-trained in Sports Medicine and completed his specialized training at the world-renowned Steadman Clinic in Vail, Colorado, one of the most prestigious sports medicine fellowships in the country.
“Having used robotic technology for total knee replacements, I’m excited to now offer this precision to patients who are candidates for partial knee replacement,” says Dr. Johnson. “The VELYS system allows me to tailor each surgery to the patient’s unique anatomy, potentially leading to better outcomes and faster recovery.”
From his days as an all-conference football player to his training with Olympic and professional athletes, Dr. Johnson understands the importance of getting people back to their active lifestyles as quickly and safely as possible.
How Does Robotic-Assisted Partial Knee Replacement Work?
The VELYS Robotic-Assisted Solution isn’t science fiction—it’s real-time science working for you. Here’s what makes it special:
Real-Time Data Collection: During your surgery, the VELYS system gathers data about your specific knee anatomy, giving Dr. Johnson real-time insights that help guide every decision.
Personalized Implant Placement: No two knees are exactly alike. This technology allows Dr. Johnson to tailor implant placement to your specific anatomy, potentially leading to a better fit and improved function.
Enhanced Precision: The system is designed to improve the accuracy of surgical cuts and implant placement, which can be especially important for the precise nature of partial knee replacements.
No CT Scan Required: Unlike some robotic systems, VELYS doesn’t require a pre-operative CT scan, reducing your radiation exposure while saving time and money.
What Are the Benefits for You?
Choosing robotic-assisted partial knee replacement at CMC could offer several advantages:
Faster Recovery: Many patients experience quicker healing due to smaller incisions and reduced soft tissue trauma. Some patients even go home the same day.
Less Pain: Smaller incisions and precise surgical techniques often mean less post-operative discomfort.
Preserved Natural Knee: By keeping your healthy bone and ligaments intact, partial knee replacement can feel more natural than total knee replacement.
Quicker Return to Activities: Many patients find they can return to activities they love sooner than with traditional total knee replacement.
Improved Long-Term Outcomes: The precision of robotic assistance may contribute to better implant longevity and function.
Dr. Johnson stresses that the VELYS system doesn’t replace the skill of the surgeon.
“It’s similar to driving a car,” explains Dr. Johnson. I am in full control of the vehicle’s direction, acceleration, deceleration, and braking. The purpose of the robot is similar to your vehicle’s navigation system. It allows me to navigate around your unique and specific anatomy to achieve the goals outlined above (lesser pain, quicker recovery, precise implant placement) and contributes to overall patient satisfaction and long term implant survivorship.”
Are You a Candidate for Partial Knee Replacement?
Partial knee replacement isn’t right for everyone, but you might be a candidate if:
- Your arthritis or damage is limited to one compartment of your knee
- You have good bone quality and stable ligaments
- Your range of motion is reasonably good
- You’re motivated to participate in physical therapy and rehabilitation
The only way to know for sure is through a consultation with Dr. Johnson, who can evaluate your specific situation and discuss all your treatment options.
What Can You Expect After Surgery?
Recovery from partial knee replacement is typically faster than total knee replacement, and with robotic assistance, it may be even smoother:
Immediate Recovery: You’ll begin physical therapy within a day of surgery, and many patients go home the same day or after just one night in the hospital.
First Few Weeks: You’ll work diligently with physical therapy to regain motion and strength. While you’ll have some discomfort, many patients find it’s less than they expected.
Return to Activities: Most people return to work within 6-8 weeks, and you may be able to enjoy activities like walking, swimming, golf, and even doubles tennis once you’re fully recovered.
Long-Term: Many patients report their partial knee replacement feels more natural than they expected, allowing them to return to activities they had given up due to knee pain.
Conway Medical Center: Leading the Way in Orthopedic Care
CMC’s commitment to bringing cutting-edge technology to the Grand Strand region means you don’t have to travel far from home to access world-class orthopedic care. This latest advancement joins CMC’s comprehensive orthopedic services, ensuring you have access to the most advanced treatments available.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
If knee pain has been limiting your lifestyle, it’s time to explore your options. Dr. Johnson and the team at CMC Orthopaedics are ready to help you determine if partial knee replacement with robotic assistance could be the solution you’ve been looking for.
Don’t let knee pain keep you on the sidelines any longer. The activities you love—and the life you want to live—may be closer than you think.
To schedule a consultation with Dr. Donovan Johnson at CMC Orthopaedics, call 843-347-8041 or request an appointment. Take the first step toward getting back to the activities you love.
Conway Medical Center is proud to be the first in South Carolina to offer the VELYS Robotic-Assisted Solution for partial knee replacement, continuing our commitment to bringing innovative, patient-centered care to our community.
