We talk a lot about Mako robotic arm assisted joint replacements. People sometimes ask why we place so much emphasis on this type of joint replacement surgery and why Carrothers Orthopaedics recommends Mako to anyone needing a joint replacement, unless there are good reasons not to.
The answer is simple.
While conventional joint replacement surgery is generally safe and effective, providing life-changing benefits for the majority of people, Mako offers some clear advantages. So, what are they?
The advantages of Mako robotic arm assisted joint replacement
Mako robotic arm assisted joint replacement differs from conventional joint replacement surgery in two important ways.
The first is it has a unique computer software programme that enables the orthopaedic surgeon to create an accurate 3D model of your joint based on a CT scan.
The second is that it uses a state-of-the-art robotic arm to support the surgeon on the operating table. Here’s why these two innovations are such a gamechanger for joint replacement surgery.
- Mako system software is an important benefit because every patient’s joint anatomy is unique. By creating an accurate 3D virtual model of your joint, the surgeon can pre-plan the surgery even before you reach the operating table. They can see exactly which areas of damaged bone and tissue need to be removed and which are healthy and can be retained. They can see, too, how to align the prosthetic implant with pinpoint precision. This makes a difference to the long-term comfort and performance of your new joint, as even the slightest misalignment can affect how the prosthetic implant feels and how well it performs over time. If you ever need a replacement implant in the future (because all implants wear over time and sometimes need replacing), the fact that Mako enables as much non-diseased bone and tissue as possible to be retained helps lower the risk of re-do surgery complications.
- Mako’s robotic arm offers an important advantage in the operating theatre. It features something called Accustop which guides the orthopaedic surgeon to stay within the pre-defined area so that only damaged bone and soft tissue is removed. The robotic arm cannot act on its own or think for itself. Instead, it is there to support the consultant’s surgical skill and ensure the greatest possible accuracy.
These unique features mean that Mako robotic arm assisted joint replacement surgery delivers:
- High levels of accuracy and precision, which means improved performance and greater comfort – feeling more natural.
- More consistent results due to the accurate alignment of the prosthetic implant and less soft tissue damage.
- Faster recovery times as Mako in experienced surgeon’s hands is generally less invasive, meaning patients spend less time on the operating table.
- Lower pain scores among patients surveyed after six months post-surgery compared to patients who had a conventional joint replacement.
- Higher patient satisfaction scores among patients compared with those who had a conventional joint replacement.
- Preservation of healthy bone and soft tissue, which is an advantage if revision surgery is needed in the future.
While Mako joint replacements are not suitable for a small number of patients (for example, if you are unable to have a CT scan or anaesthetic, or if you have an infection in the affected limb), most people are now eligible for this type of surgery.
If you’d like more information about Mako surgery and your options, please contact us.
Don’t just take our word for it
A patient at Spire Cambridge Lea Hospital, writing on the independent review site Iwantgreatcare on 20 August 2026, said:
“I am now exactly 10 months post MAKO total left knee replacement and 7 months post MAKO total right knee replacement. Mr Carrothers warned me that the first 6 weeks post surgery would be ‘grizzly’ and he was right, but having endured increasing amounts of pain over the previous approximately 5 years, pushing through the initial recovery period and making sure to follow all physio recommendations was so worth it. I can still feel the knees clicking and clunking a bit but Mr Carrothers had warned me, prior to surgery that this would be the case, and this is lessening now with time. The most fantastic things is I am now pain free in both knees.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What Mako joint replacement surgery is available?
Carrothers Orthopaedics offers Mako partial knee replacements, total knee replacements and total hip replacements.
Are there any risks with Mako?
Like all surgery, Mako joint replacement surgery comes with a small risk of complications, such as developing an infection or possible loosening of the implant. Your orthopaedic surgeon will discuss the possible risks with you prior to surgery.
How do I know if I can have a Mako joint replacement?
Discuss your individual circumstances with your orthopaedic surgeon. Alternatively, contact us and we will be happy to advise you.
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.
Our consultation fees are clearly presented here.
For your convenience, we offer appointments at both Nuffield Hospital Cambridge and Spire Cambridge Lea Hospital.
