O’Bleness Hospital Introduces Robotic-Assisted Joint Replacement Surgery
OhioHealth O’Bleness Hospital is now offering robotic-assisted joint replacement surgery, expanding access to advanced orthopedic care for patients in Athens and throughout southeast Ohio. The hospital recently completed its first robotic-assisted cases and now offers the technology for total knee replacement, partial knee replacement and total hip replacement procedures.
Robotic-assisted technology, including the ROSA system used at O’Bleness Hospital, supports surgeons with advanced planning and real-time guidance during surgery, allowing for a more personalized approach based on each patient’s anatomy. The surgeon remains fully in control throughout the procedure, using the technology to support precision and decision-making.
For patients, the technology allows surgeons to better tailor joint replacement to the individual. That can mean a joint that feels more natural and functions better during everyday activities.
“I’m excited to be able to offer state-of-the-art, robotic-assisted joint replacement right here in Athens,” said Sergio Ulloa, DO, orthopedic surgeon at O’Bleness Hospital. “The technology helps us plan more precisely and place implants in a way that’s best suited for each patient, with long-term outcomes in mind.”
The introduction of robotic-assisted joint replacement builds on recent investments in surgical services at O’Bleness Hospital, including the opening of new, modernized operating rooms in 2025.
“This is another important investment in the health of our community and the teams who care for our patients every day,” said LeeAnn Lucas-Helber, president of O’Bleness Hospital. “Our surgeons and surgical staff are excited to use these tools, and our patients benefit from having advanced orthopedic care available locally rather than needing to travel.”
