Andrew Carrothers – one of the early pioneers of Mako robotic-arm assisted joint replacement surgery and a passionate advocate of the benefits of this approach for patients – recently performed his 1000th Mako procedure.
This significant milestone comes just two years after Mr Carrothers helped spearhead the implementation of Mako Total Knee 2 – the latest generation Mako Knee Replacement technology.
There were celebrations here at Carrothers Orthopaedics to know that 1000 people are now living with prosthetic hips and knees fitted combining Andrew Carrothers’ surgical expertise with innovative Mako technology.
So, what is it that makes Mako such an important advance in joint replacement surgery and why is Mr Carrothers involved in teaching other surgeons how to use the Mako system?
Mako improves patient outcomes
Mako combines advanced computer software, used to pre-plan the surgical procedure in detail, with an innovative robotic arm that supports the surgeon in the operating theatre. The Mako SmartRobotics system was developed by Stryker to help improve outcomes for patients. It is designed to complement and enhance the surgeon’s skills rather than replacing them and orthopaedic literature and patient surveys confirms significant benefits for patients.
Because the system enables extensive pre-operative planning, patients spend less time on the operating table which helps reduce blood loss. Prosthetic implants are more accurately aligned thanks to the highly detailed planning and surgical processes, which results in better long-term performance and comfort. Surveyed six months after surgery, Mako patients report lower pain scores compared to conventional joint replacements and higher satisfaction levels.
About the Mako System
The Mako system combines three innovative features:
- Pre-operative planning using 3D virtual models of the patient’s unique joint anatomy created from CT scans.This enables 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 enable 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.
Mako Total Knee 2.0
Total knee replacements involve removing the entire bony knee joint and replacing it with a prosthetic implant. Mako Total Knee 2.0 was developed following more than half a million Mako Total Knee procedures. The updated system uses Mako’s 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.
What patients say
A glance at Mr Carrothers’ reviews on iwantgreatcare – the independent review site – shows how patients feel about their Mako joint replacements. One private patient at Nuffield Hospital Cambridge wrote on 27 May 2025:
“Mr Carrothers favours Mako Robotic assisted technology in his procedures, which provides a level of accuracy not achievable with traditional approaches and one I would highly recommend. Mr Carrothers has gathered an amazing team around him too and feel I should mention this, as the overall care and expertise displayed by all, is worthy of note and praise; a special thanks also to Dr Mahroof, Mr Carrothers anaesthetist. Mr Carrothers, a heartfelt thank you for all you have done for me, Sir. God bless you and see you soon for part two.”
For more information about Mako joint replacement surgery as well as conventional joint replacements and non-surgical treatments for joint pain, contact us.
Talk to an orthopaedic consultant | Cambridge
We are always happy to provide information and guidance about the 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.
