Carrothers Orthopaedics continues to lead the way in Mako joint replacement surgery and in 2024 will continue to be one of the pioneers of the new Mako Knee 2.0 software.
To date, Mr Andrew Carrothers has performed 640 joint replacement procedures using the innovative Mako SmartRobotics system – 420 at the Nuffield Hospital in Cambridge and 220 at The Spire Hospital. Mr Carrothers performs Mako surgery for total hip replacement (405 cases to date), total knee replacement (186 cases) and partial knee replacement (49 cases).
Over the last 17 years, since the system was first introduced, more than a million Mako procedures have been performed in 35 countries worldwide. There have been more than 330 peer-reviewed studies published in leading journals.
The technology has continued to develop and the new Mako Knee 2.0 software will likely improve outcomes still further for patients undergoing knee replacement surgery.
So, what is Mako SmartRobotics and how is it improving joint replacement surgery around the world?
What is Mako SmartRobotics?
Patients with severe hip or knee pain, caused by an injury or degenerative condition like arthritis, may be offered a joint replacement if other less invasive procedures no longer provide sufficient relief. This entails removing the damaged joint – or a section of the joint in the case of partial joint replacement surgery – and replacing it with a prosthetic implant which provides long-term improvement in function and mobility.
Mako SmartRobotics was developed by Stryker to enhance the skill of orthopaedic surgeons and improve outcomes for patients. The system comprises specialist software, which is used for detailed pre-operative planning, and an innovative robotic arm which is used during the surgery itself to assist with making accurate incisions.
Mako’s innovative features
Mako combines three features:
- Pre-operative planning using 3D virtual models of the patient’s unique joint anatomy created from CT scans. This helps the surgeon to devise a detailed, individualised plan of the procedure before the patient reaches the operating theatre.
- AccuStop haptic technology which helps to improve precision during the surgical procedure itself. Studies have shown this technology supports more pristine bone resections, less soft tissue damage and greater bone preservation when compared to manual cutting blocks.
- Insightful data analytics which enables the surgeon to track certain performance indicators, including any complications or readmissions, as well as capturing patient-reported outcomes. This information helps to track patient progress and enables surgeons to strive for continuous improvement.
Benefits of Mako
Using the Mako system often means patients spend less time on the operating table because of the extensive pre-operative planning. When surveyed after six months, patients who’ve received Mako surgery report lower pain scores than with conventional joint replacements and their satisfaction levels are higher. Prosthetic implants are more accurately aligned with Mako, leading to better performance and comfort.
Next generation Mako
Mako Total Knee 2.0 is the latest generation Mako Knee Replacement technology, informed by more than half a million Mako Total Knee procedures carried out over the past six years. It uses state-of-the-art SmartRobotics technology to ensure even more accurate prosthetic positioning and enhanced performance and outcomes. The system enables surgeons to assess any soft tissue laxities and adjust the placement of the implant before the surgeon irreversibly commits to any surgical bone cuts. AccuStop haptic technology guides the surgeon to remain within the pre-surgical plan which improves accuracy and avoids soft tissue damage.
Patient feedback about Mako robotic arm assisted joint replacement
On 25 November 2023, a private patient at Nuffield Hospital Cambridge wrote the following review on iwantgreatcare.org:
“During my first consultation the procedure, using Mako Robotic-Arm Assisted Surgery, was fully explained to myself and my husband by Mr. Carrothers. This would be performed under a spinal anaesthetic by Dr. Maroof. We were confident and agreed to go ahead.”
The patient described undergoing pre-assessment tests on the morning of surgery before being taken into theatre. The procedure itself went well and the patient was discharged with medication, crutches and appointments for the wound dressing clinic, physiotherapy and a six-week follow-up.
At the time of leaving the review, the patient had just had the follow-up appointment and commented:
“My progress has been very good, it is six weeks since surgery and I am well on the way to recovery. Thank you so much to Mr Carrothers and his team.”
For more patient feedback, visit our Testimonials page and for further information about Mako hip and knee replacement surgery, please contact us.
Further Reading – Free Patient Download Guides
Mako Robotic-Arm Assisted Surgery for Partial Knee Replacement
Mako Robotic-Arm Assisted Surgery for Total Hip Replacement
Mako Robotic-Arm Assisted Surgery for Total Knee Replacement
Talk to an orthopaedic consultant | Cambridge
We are always happy to provide information and guidance about various treatment options, both surgical and non-surgical, including Mako robotic arm assisted surgery and conventional surgery.
For more information, please contact us.
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For your convenience, we offer appointments at both Nuffield Hospital Cambridge and Spire Cambridge Lea Hospital.
