29-05-2025
Decatur Morgan Hospital invests in robotic-assisted orthopedic surgeries
May 29—Decatur Morgan Hospital has expanded its use of surgical robotics with the recent purchase of one designed specifically for orthopedic procedures such as knee and hip replacements, continuing the hospital's focus on using advanced technology for faster patient recoveries.
The Velys Robotic-Assisted Solution, acquired in March, was partially funded through proceeds from the annual Decatur Morgan Hospital Foundation Dragon Boat Race & Festival, held each May.
Dr. Justin Hallock, a surgeon with DOC Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine, has used the robot extensively for hip and knee replacements.
"At Sports Medicine, we treat a lot of shoulders, hips and knees, so we do treat a lot of athletes, but we also treat a lot of patients from kids to elderly adults," Hallock said.
The Velys robot works together with the ATTUNE Knee System to provide surgeons with real-time data.
Hallock said surgeons can tailor the robot to make different incisions on the hip and knee.
"The navigation allows us to track the balancing of the knee or the leg lengths so that you can really dial it in to give the patient the best overall outcome," Hallock said.
He said the hospital still utilizes traditional surgery without robots in some areas, but with the Velys they can position and balance the knee to provide a more personalized and precise joint replacement.
"The recovery and the rehab after is very similar (to traditional surgery)," Hallock said. "The difference is you end up with a more kinematic or natural feeling, so that's where it will feel normal quicker."
Hallock said although the orthopedic robot can be used for most age groups, its biggest impact is on patients who have had prior surgeries or who have severe deformities in their knee joints.
"The more complex the case, the more reliable the robot will be," Hallock said.
Hallock performed a hip replacement with the robot this month on a 70-year-old woman.
He said the robot's advanced imaging and data is beneficial because it allows the surgeon to see things like metal hardware or bone irregularities during surgery, something that was limited in traditional surgery.
Decatur Morgan Hospital President and CEO Kelli Powers said the purchase of the Velys robot is consistent with their mission to provide the best possible care to their patients.
"This latest addition to our robotic surgical capabilities builds on our commitment to innovation and excellence, ensuring that every patient receives the most advanced and personalized care possible," Powers said.
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