How Cutting-Edge Robotic Technology at Schön Klinik Bad Aibling Harthausen Is Revolutionizing Joint Replacement – and Why It Offers New Perspectives Especially for Younger Patients
The number of people opting for an artificial hip joint at an earlier stage is steadily increasing. Pain, limited mobility, and a reduced quality of life are reasons why surgery is now often necessary as early as the age of 40. At Schön Klinik Bad Aibling Harthausen, a highly advanced system is being used that is attracting attention: the CORI robotic system.
A Milestone in Joint Replacement: The CORI System
The CORI robotic system is not a classic surgical robot acting autonomously, but rather a precise navigation tool that supports surgeons in real time. The robot itself does not perform any movements; instead, it functions as an “intelligent assistance system.”
Professor Dr. Vladimir Martinek, Head of the Joint Centre at the clinic, explains in an interview:
“We operate as before, but the robot guides us in positioning the instruments and implants.”
In knee surgery, for example, the milling device is directly guided by the robotic system. In hip surgery, however, the robot navigates while the surgeon controls the instruments. The patient’s individual anatomy is always taken into account – including the interaction between lumbar spine and pelvis.
The goal: maximum precision, exact placement of the implants, and a significantly reduced complication rate.
Why This Technology Makes a Difference
A central issue in joint replacement is accuracy. Even the slightest deviations in the positioning of the hip socket or implant components can lead to long-term problems – such as reduced mobility or even dislocation.
Before surgery, CORI performs a preoperative analysis that considers individual movement patterns and anatomical conditions. For example, the socket can be positioned in such a way that the patient’s natural mobility is optimally supported.
“This leads to improved mobility of the hip joint while reducing the risk of dislocation,” explains Dr. Martinek.
In addition, leg length discrepancies – once a frequent complication after hip surgery – can now be corrected with much greater precision using robotic assistance.
Why More 40-Year-Olds Are Choosing Artificial Joints
In the past, hip surgery was considered a typical treatment for older patients. That has changed. Lifestyle today demands more mobility – whether in sports, hiking, cycling, or at work. Many people no longer accept limitations caused by pain.
“Nowadays, no 40-year-old has to live with constant pain and reduced quality of life,” says Dr. Martinek. “In fact, many later regret not having had the surgery earlier.”
Thanks to modern implant materials and precise surgical techniques, the lifespan of artificial hips has significantly increased – often lasting 25 years or longer.
Risks and Limitations – Robotics Still Has Boundaries
Despite its advantages, the new technology is not suitable for every patient. Currently, CORI can only be used for individuals with average body size and weight. For very small or significantly overweight patients, suitable navigation solutions are not yet available.
“We need a certain body size for navigation to work,” Martinek explains. “But work is already underway on a CT-based robotic system that can be used even in more complex anatomies.”
The procedure also takes about ten minutes longer on average. Additionally, two small navigation pins must be placed in the pelvic bone – but these cause no long-term issues and heal within a few days.
Recovery and Aftercare: What Patients Can Expect
Whether with or without robotics, recovery always depends on the patient’s physical condition, age, and motivation. However, robotic-assisted methods are generally gentler, as less tissue is damaged. This can lead to reduced postoperative pain and faster mobilization.
Typically, patients are discharged after four to five days and begin outpatient or inpatient rehabilitation. The road back to an active life can therefore be relatively short.
Conclusion: A Personal Decision – with Great Potential
In the end, surgery is always a personal decision. But modern technology can help ease concerns. Dr. Martinek advises:
“As long as quality of life is good, surgery isn’t necessary. But anyone who suffers from regular pain and restricted movement should carefully explore the surgical options. Modern robotics gives us many new opportunities to work even more precisely and successfully.”
The future lies in personalized, technology-assisted medicine – and CORI is a prime example of how high-tech can improve quality of life.
Source:
Interview with Prof. Dr. Vladimir Martinek, published in Oberbayerisches Volksblatt, July 25, 2025, under the title: “We Can Work Even More Precisely.”
