Novant Health Rowan Medical Center is holding a grand opening and ribbon-cutting ceremony at 5 p.m. today for its new NAVIO robot.

The NAVIO Surgical System features the newest technology for total and partial knee replacements.

The medical center purchased thea NAVIO robotic orthopedic surgical system to help surgeons perform precise and accurate partial and total knee replacement surgeries.

NAVIO works in conjunction with the surgeon’s hands to precisely position the knee implant based on each patient’s unique anatomy. This added level of accuracy can help improve the function, feel and potential longevity of the partial knee implant.

“The advanced software and robotics-assisted hand piece allows me to perform knee replacements with great precision,” said Dr. Chip Comadoll, orthopedic surgeon and director of robotic surgery at Rowan Medical Center. “The NAVIO robot integrates seamlessly into our health system and allows us to continue to provide cutting-edge, world-class care to our patients.”

With no pre-operative CT-scan required, NAVIO patients receive the benefits of robotic assistance without additional time spent for pre-operative procedures. Instead, the surgeon collects anatomical data during the procedure to build a 3-D model of the patient’s knee. This patient-specific information helps the surgeon place the implant and balances the knee’s ligaments for optimal alignment and a well-balanced knee.

“We have been using robotic surgery for over five years now,” said Comadoll. “This new second-generation instrument is like comparing a Model T to a Porsche.”

Millions of people suffer from knee pain caused by osteoarthritis, which occurs when the cushioning cartilage breaks down between joints, such as the knee. Partial knee replacement of only the diseased part of the knee is a solution that can benefit sufferers of early to mid-stage osteoarthritis.

The medical center has set up a mock operating room where people can see the robot in action today.

The event is being held in the main lobby of the hospital at 612 Mocksville Ave.