Walking Strong After Robotic-Assisted Knee Surgery

Last fall, Pam Ludy, 65, took a trip with her sister to North Carolina. But Pam, who has osteoarthritis in both knees, had a hard time walking. Osteoarthritis, a condition in which the cartilage between joints wears down, causes bones to rub against each other. It made everyday activities, including taking this vacation and walking her 800-acre property in Warrenton, painful.

“I couldn’t do the things I wanted to do with my sister, 10 grandchildren, and my great grandchild,” Pam says. “The pain I was having made everything harder.”

Pam sought care from Anthony Berni, MD, a BJC Medical Group orthopedic surgeon at Barnes-Jewish St. Peters Hospital in April. Dr. Berni suggested knee replacement, focusing on the left knee first. He also recommended that the procedure be performed with robotic assistance.

Robotic-assisted knee surgery is a modern approach to knee replacement procedures, where a robotic arm assists the surgeon in performing the operation. Before surgery, a robotic arm uses sensors, cameras, and software algorithms to help the surgeon create a personalized surgical plan. It helps surgeons identify which size implant to use. During surgery, physicians use the robotic arm to guide the precise placement of implants to optimize range of motion, stability, and alignment and minimize bone and soft tissue damage. The robotic arm also allows surgeons to quickly adjust an implant’s alignment or placement during surgery if they need to.

“Robotic-assisted knee replacement allows us to customize the procedure to each patient’s unique anatomy with remarkable precision,” Dr. Berni says. “This level of accuracy in implant placement can lead to improved joint function, a more natural feel, and potentially a quicker, smoother recovery.”

"I was very nervous, but my nurse was wonderful, and she comforted me and made me feel better," Pam says. "Dr. Berni was amazing. He explained everything clearly, listened to my concerns, and made me feel completely at ease. I felt confident I was in the best hands possible. Everyone was friendly, kind, and supportive. The follow-up care has been great.”

Pam is walking pain-free, enjoying the outdoors, and making up for lost time with her family. “I have a trip planned with my sister this October, and I can’t wait to be able to fully enjoy it.”

Pam is planning to have her right knee replaced early in 2026, and she wouldn’t trust anyone else. “Dr. Berni is hands-on, thorough, and I am going back to him,” she says.

To schedule a consultation or learn more, visit BJC Medical Group Orthopedics and Sports Medicine at O’Fallon or call 636-695-0400.

Schedule a consultation