Robotic knee surgery upgrade aims to improve recovery and long‑term outcomes

February 27, 2026

Providence Oregon News Team

March 2026

For people living with knee pain, the goal of surgery is simple: Less pain, better movement and a return to the activities that matter most. At Providence St. Vincent Medical Center, new advancements in robotic knee replacement surgery are helping make that goal more achievable.

Orthopedic surgeon Elizabeth Lieberman, M.D., is among a small group of 15–20 surgeons nationwide invited to gain early experience with enhanced software for the Zimmer Biomet ROSA with Optimize robotic system. The upgraded technology is now being used at Providence St. Vincent Medical Center, bringing another level of precision and personalization to knee replacement surgery.

“We’re all trying to get better and do better and get our patients the best outcomes possible,” Dr. Lieberman says. “And this is a tool that can help with that.”

Care tailored to each patient

Robotic-assisted knee replacement already helps surgeons plan and perform procedures with greater accuracy. The new upgrade allows Dr. Lieberman to take that a step further — using specific alignment to reflect how each person’s knee moves and functions.

For patients, that precision can translate into improved recovery, better joint function, and long-term durability of the implant.

“We see it all come together in the operating room which is the most exciting thing,” Dr. Lieberman says.

Her partners at Orthopedic and Fracture Specialists in Portland are also using the upgraded robotic system, expanding access to this advanced approach for more patients across the region.

Meeting modern expectations for mobility

Today’s knee replacement patients span all ages and activity levels. Many are limited by arthritis despite trying non-surgical options. Dr. Lieberman says when pain is constant and affects daily life, it may be time to talk about surgery.

With modern techniques and technology, the focus isn’t just on relieving pain — it’s on helping people return to the activities they love, whether that’s walking comfortably, traveling or staying active.

“You’re never too young or too old to have a knee replacement,” she says.

Confidence in care

Dr. Lieberman credits Providence’s commitment to innovation, research and quality improvement — supported by the Providence Foundations — for making advancements like this possible. She describes Providence St. Vincent Medical Center as a place she would choose for her own care.

“I feel confident bringing my patients here for surgery,” she says.

As robotic technology continues to evolve, Providence remains focused on what matters most: helping patients recover faster, move better, and live with less pain — through care that’s precise, personal, and centered on each individual.