Partial knee replacement surgery is now more accurate and successful than every before thanks to ultra precise robotic technology. Mako robotic arm assisted technology uses CT scans to create patient-specific 3D models of the patient’s knee. These are then used to plan the correct sizing, position and orientation of implants according to the patient’s unique anatomy.
Osteoarthritis can affect either one or both compartments of the knee. This technology allows the surgeon to target only those parts of the knee that are affected, replacing diseased bone and ligaments while leaving the healthy areas untouched.
How it works
You will undergo a CT scan of the affected knee joint. This will then be used to create a 3D virtual model of your knee which is loaded into the Mako system software. From this, your surgeon will create a personalised pre-operative plan.
During surgery, the surgeon will guide the Mako robotic arm, using your personalised plan as a precisely targeted guide. This ensures that only diseased areas are removed, preserving as much healthy bone and tissue as possible to assist with recovery.
The system allows your surgeon to make fine adjustments to the plan during surgery but restricts him from moving outside the planned boundaries.
There is a burr at edge of the robotic arm which will only cut where it is supposed to. If it reaches the boundary it will stop. This produces precisely targeted results. The robotic arm moves with fluidity and control, enabling the surgeon to see a real time feed in three different dimensions on a screen in front of him.
The result is the most accurate possible alignment and placement of the knee implant.
This is beneficial because most conventional knee replacement surgery requires minor compromises to be made in terms of the sizing and fit of implants. This might lead to discomfort and poorer outcomes over time.
After Mako assisted surgery, you will be set individual personalised goals to help get you back on your feet. You will be closely monitored to ensure your implant is integrating well and you are making a complete recovery.
Benefits
Mako Robotic Arm Assisted Surgery uses the latest technology to provide the best possible outcomes for patients. It uses smaller incisions than some conventional surgery and causes less soft tissue damage, less exposure and fewer bony resections.
Mako partial knee replacements feel more like a natural knee because they precisely fit your unique anatomy. Patients can often return to office-type work within four to six weeks.
