Robotic-Assisted Knee Replacement Surgery

When knee pain holds you back from the life you want to live, it may be time to explore knee replacement. At Glacial Ridge Health System, orthopedic surgeon Dr. Joshua Thomas performs total knee replacement using the VELYS™ Robotic-Assisted Solution from Johnson & Johnson MedTech, bringing personalized, precision robotic knee replacement to Glenwood and the surrounding west central Minnesota communities.

Is knee replacement right for you?

Knee replacement surgery replaces damaged or worn-out surfaces of the knee joint to ease pain and restore mobility. You may be a candidate if chronic knee pain from arthritis, injury, or cartilage loss is limiting your daily activities, and non-surgical treatments such as physical therapy, medications, or injections are no longer providing adequate relief. The best way to find out is to request an appointment with Dr. Thomas. He’ll evaluate your knee, explain your condition, discuss options, and then determine a personalized plan.

Why robotic knee replacement?

The VELYS™ system assists Dr. Thomas by creating a personalized surgical plan based on data specific to your knee anatomy. The technology enhances his precision, but it does not perform the surgery.

• No CT scan required — the VELYS™ system is image-free. Your plan is built in the operating room using real-time data from your knee, which means less radiation and fewer pre-surgery appointments.
• Personalized to your anatomy — the system captures detailed information about your specific knee for proper implant fit and alignment.
• Real-time tracking — advanced camera technology monitors your knee throughout surgery and adjusts to help complete the plan as intended.
• Proven implant — VELYS™ works exclusively with the ATTUNE™ Knee System, which has been provided to over 1 million patients worldwide.

What to Expect Before, During, and After Surgery

Before surgery: Dr. Thomas will evaluate your knee and overall health. Many patients benefit from physical therapy before surgery (sometimes called prehabilitation) to strengthen the muscles around the knee, which can support a faster recovery. Because the VELYS™ system does not require a pre-operative CT scan, your preparation is more streamlined than with some other approaches.

During surgery: A total knee replacement typically takes about one hour. The VELYS™ system captures data from your anatomy and provides Dr. Thomas with real-time precision guidance throughout the procedure.

After surgery: You will typically begin physical therapy the same day and go home within one to two days. Dr. Thomas personally visits you the morning after surgery to assess your progress, answer your questions, and demonstrate how to change your dressings so you feel confident managing your recovery at home. Our physical therapy team will work with you on a personalized rehabilitation plan to help you regain strength, flexibility, and mobility. Full recovery typically takes six to twelve months, and physical therapy is an important part of the process throughout.

Your Surgeon: Dr. Joshua Thomas

Dr. Thomas completed a year-long fellowship in advanced shoulder surgery at Johns Hopkins, where he also trained in plastic surgery closure techniques for faster recovery and minimal scarring. He has extensive residency training in joint replacement, and his dedication to the latest technology, including the VELYS™ Robotic-Assisted Solution, means you receive advanced expertise with compassionate, local care.

Before contemplating surgery, Dr. Thomas works with his patients to explore all available non-surgical treatments first. When conservative options are no longer enough, surgery can make a real difference. “If the patient is at wits’ end and they’re in pain, they’re going to get better with surgery,” says Dr. Thomas. He emphasizes the importance of trust, honesty, and a good doctor-patient relationship in every treatment decision. “I ask myself, if this were my mom or dad, what would I be doing? I sift through the options, but ultimately, it’s up to the patient what they want to do.”

Learn more about Dr. Thomas.