The MARVEL Project
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Manual arthroplasty versus VELYS robot-assisted functional alignment in total knee arthroplasty (The MARVEL Project): A randomised controlled trial with multi-domain investigations
IRAS ID
364581
Contact name
Jon Clarke
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
NHS National Waiting Times Centre
Duration of Study in the UK
5 years, 0 months, 1 days
Research summary
Although total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is effective, up to 20% of patients remain dissatisfied. Robot-assisted systems yield more accurate and reproducible TKA which may be associated with better functional outcomes, but high quality evidence is lacking. Furthermore, imageless robot-assisted platforms may yield better post-TKA function by facilitating reproducible, and effective TKA using functional alignment principles without the cost and risk of CT-guided systems. This trial will compare robot-assisted TKA following a functional alignment philosophy using an imageless robotic system (VELYS) with conventional manual TKA. Outcomes will align with the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) Early Value Assessment priorities for the evaluation of robot-assisted orthopaedic systems.
REC name
West of Scotland REC 5
REC reference
26/WS/0020
Date of REC Opinion
2 Mar 2026
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion