We offer Mako robotic arm assisted hip and knee replacement surgery. In this article we answer some of your frequently asked questions about this state of the art treatment for severe hip and knee pain.
What is Mako robotic arm assisted surgery?
Mako is a leading edge robotic-arm technology developed by Stryker. It is used by some orthopaedic surgeons to assist with joint replacement surgery and the results are excellent. The Mako system enables your surgeon to create an accurate 3D model of your unique joint anatomy based on a CT scan. This is used to pre-plan your surgery before you reach the operating table.
During surgery, your surgeon guides the Mako robotic arm, based on this personalised plan, helping them to focus on removing diseased bone and preserving healthy bone. The system also assists the surgeon to position the prosthetic implant with pinpoint precision, ensuring the best fit with your unique bone structure.
Read more about Mako:
Mako Robotic Arm Assisted Joint Replacement
MakoTM Robotic-Arm Assisted Surgery – Total Hip Replacement – Patient Guide
Mako® Robotic-Arm Assisted Surgery – Total Knee Replacement – Patient Guide
MakoTM Robotic-Arm Assisted Surgery – Partial Knee Replacement – Patient Guide
What is Mako used for?
Carrothers Orthopaedics uses Mako robotic arm assisted surgery for total hip replacements, total knee replacements and partial knee replacements.
What does Mako entail?
Prior to your surgery, you will be invited to have a CT scan of the painful joint (hip or knee). The Mako system uses the scan to generate a 3D virtual model of your unique anatomy. This is loaded into the Mako system software which allows the surgeon to create a pre-operative plan that is personalised to you.
During surgery, the surgeon utilises the Mako robotic arm to remove the damaged parts of your joint and position the prosthetic implant. The system guides the surgeon to stay within the pre-defined area so that only damaged bone is removed and the implant is aligned with pinpoint precision.
After surgery, you will be supported to rehabilitate using a programme of specially devised exercises and stretches and your progress will be monitored to ensure you make a good recovery.
How does it differ from conventional hip or knee replacement surgery?
Mako robotic arm assisted surgery differs from conventional hip or knee replacement surgery in that it uses highly advanced software in conjunction with the surgeon’s experience to create a personalised pre-operative plan and then has robotic arm technology to support the orthopaedic surgeon during the joint replacement surgery.
How long has Mako been around?
The first Mako procedure was performed in June 2006.
What are the benefits of Mako robotic arm assisted technology?
Mako technology was developed to support surgeons to provide patients with a highly personalised surgical experience, based on their specific diagnosis and anatomy. Studies show that Mako enables surgeons to carry out their surgical plans more accurately. Mako helps protect soft tissue and ligaments from damage.
In a clinical study, Mako patients surveyed after six months reported lower pain scores than those who received a conventional joint replacement. Another clinical study showed Mako patients surveyed after six months reported better satisfaction scores compared to those who received a conventional joint replacement.
Does the robotic arm perform the surgery?
No. The surgery is performed by your orthopaedic surgeon who uses the robotic arm system before surgery to create a plan and during surgery to guide them and position the implant. The robotic arm cannot make decisions on its own or move in any way without the surgeon to guide it.
Are there any risks associated with Mako robotic arm assisted hip and knee surgery?
All surgery carries risks and your surgeon will discuss the risks of joint replacement during your pre-surgical consultation. Clinical studies show Mako can help to reduce certain risks including more accurate alignment of hip implants based on the surgical plan, a reduced risk of blood loss and less likelihood of hip dislocation.
Who can have Mako robotic arm assisted surgery?
If you are experiencing severe hip or knee pain (due to a degenerative condition like arthritis or a serious fracture), you may be offered hip or knee replacement surgery. This entails removing the damaged joint (either the whole joint or just the damaged sections) and replacing it with a prosthetic implant. The procedure will be explained to you in full beforehand.
A number of orthopaedic surgeons, like Carrothers Orthopaedics, have gained extensive experience in the use of Mako robotic arm assisted technology to assist with joint replacements and are therefore able to train other consultant surgeons to utilise Mako as well.
Talk to an orthopaedic consultant | Cambridge
If you are interested in discussing Mako hip or knee replacement surgery, 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.
