Embodiments include a robotic mechanism that may be utilized to position prosthetic implants in a patient's body. During joint replacement surgery and other surgical procedures, prosthetic implants may be placed in a patient's body. The robotic mechanism may be utilized to control movement of a cutting tool during resection of bone in a patient's body. The robotic mechanism includes a programmable computer which is connected with the force transmitting member by a motor. A force measurement assembly is connected with the force transmitting member and the computer. The output from the force measurement assembly is indicative of a resistance encountered by the force transmitting member. A position sensor is connected with the force transmitting member and the computer. The position sensor has an output indicative of the position of the force transmitting member.
