“We found that robotic surgery with the ROSA® Knee System could give me more years out of my knee replacement,” says Georgios. “When it came to deciding where to go, my family doctor recommended I see Dr. Sebastian Rodriguez-Elizalde at Humber River Health.”

Georgios’ journey to Humber River Health began with a pre-existing knee condition that plagued him for over two decades.

“In 2001, I had arthroscopic surgery on my right knee due to an injury from playing professional soccer,” says Georgios. Unfortunately, the surgery led to a staph infection, resulting in eight follow-up surgeries and the removal of his meniscus and cartilage.

During this time, Georgios spent one month in the hospital, and was given a significant amount of morphine. Shortly after, Georgios became addicted to it and was subsequently put on oxycodone.

Georgios mentioned at the peak of his substance abuse, he was taking approximately 30 – 35 Percocet’s within three hours on a daily basis for over a year. It had come to the point in his substance abuse journey where Georgios’ needed to make a change.

After completely cutting off his substance use, Georgios went through severe withdrawals. “My stomach was cramping,” says Georgios. “I was shaking, I was sweating, and I would wake up in the middle of the night. It was like I was going through hell.” Although he overcame his substance abuse, his knee condition worsened.

Georgios and his wife began researching potential solutions. They discovered the benefits of robotic-assisted knee replacement surgery, which promised a longer-lasting solution than traditional methods.

Georgios learned that at Humber River Health, the majority of our knee replacement procedures use the ROSA® Knee System. By using 3D imaging and real-time data, the ROSA® Knee System allows surgeons to tailor procedures to each patient’s unique anatomy, ensuring optimal alignment and placement of the knee implant. This innovative approach not only reduces the likelihood of complications but also enhances the overall patient experience.

“If anyone needs knee or hip surgery, Humber River Health is the place to be,” says Georgios.

“We found that robotic surgery could give me more years out of my knee replacement,” says Georgios. “When it came to deciding where to go, my family doctor recommended I see Dr. Sebastian Rodriguez-Elizalde at Humber River Health.”

On the day of his surgery, Georgios was both anxious and hopeful. He arrived at the hospital early in the morning, underwent preparation, and met the surgical team. “I was surprised at how quickly everything went. The surgery itself took about an hour and a half,” says Georgios.

Despite his initial concerns about infection, Dr. Rodriguez-Elizalde reassured Georgios that being home would be more comfortable than staying in the hospital. By mid-afternoon, Georgios was on his way home, ready to start his recovery.

Georgios believes the customized knee replacement procedure using the ROSA® Knee System has contributed to his successful recovery. The personalized approach and quicker recovery time were significant factors in his decision to opt for robotic-assisted surgery.

“My recovery has been remarkable,” says Georgios. “Eighty to ninety per cent of my pain is gone!” Just three months post-surgery, he is already experiencing significant improvements.

While he still has some swelling and minor pain, Georgios’ is optimistic about his future mobility. His dedication to his physical therapy and exercises has played a crucial role in his recovery.

One of the most impactful aspects of Georgios’ experience was the personal care he received from Dr. Rodriguez-Elizalde and the hospital staff. “I never felt like a number. Dr. Rodriguez-Elizalde and his team made me feel like family,” says Georgios. This personal touch, combined with the high level of professionalism, left a lasting impression on Georgios.

Georgios is forever grateful to Dr. Rodriguez-Elizalde and the Orthopaedic team at Humber for the support he received throughout his journey, from enduring chronic pain to embracing a new lease on life. “If anyone needs knee or hip surgery, Humber River Health is the place to be,” says Georgios.

Expanding Robotic Surgery: ROSA® Knee System

Humber River Health is at the forefront of surgical innovation in Canada and with donor support, our Robotic Surgery Program can continue to make a difference. To learn more, please contact Caterina Magisano at cmagisano@hrh.ca