Although it may sound futuristic, robotic technology has been used to assist with joint replacement surgery for the last 17 years and it is going from strength-to-strength. Patients can be, understandably, anxious when they first hear about a robotic arm being used by their orthopaedic surgeon to assist in the operating theatre. But, once it becomes clear how Mako SmartRobotics technology is transforming surgical procedures, the vast majority of patients welcome it.
Andrew Carrothers is one of the orthopaedic surgeons who has pioneered this new generation technology and continues to lead the way.
Here’s why he believes that the Mako system is a step change for patients undergoing joint replacement surgery.
What is Mako SmartRobotics?
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 diseased joint tissue removal and implant positioning.
Which patients benefit from Mako?
This technology is used for patients who require a joint replacement due to severe hip or knee pain and loss of mobility. Symptoms like these are often due to a degenerative condition like osteoarthritis, which damages the cartilage in the joints causing the bones to rub together. It may also be the result of a serious injury or other conditions that affect joint function.
As with conventional joint replacement surgery, during a procedure that uses Mako SmartRobotics technology, the damaged joint – or a section of the joint if only part of it is damaged – is removed. It is replaced with a prosthetic implant which performs in largely the same way as the natural joint, providing anticipated long-term reduction in pain and improvement in mobility and joint function.
So, what makes Mako joint replacements different?
Mako combines three innovative features which set it apart and help surgeons to refine their approach:
- Pre-operative planning using 3D virtual models of the patient’s unique joint anatomy. The virtual models are created from a CT scan and help 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. Compared to manual cutting blocks, studies show that this technology supports more pristine bone resections, less soft tissue damage and greater bone preservation. The result is improved short-term, medium-term and likely long-term outcomes.
- Insightful data analytics allow the surgeon to track key performance indicators, such as complications or readmissions, as well as capturing patient-reported outcomes. This information helps to assess patient progress and supports surgeons in striving for continuous improvement.
How will I benefit from having a Mako joint replacement?
All joint replacements improve quality of life because they increase mobility, reduce pain and enable you to resume the activities that you used to enjoy. However, there are some specific benefits to have a Mako SmartRobotics procedure. Patients spend less time on the operating table because of the extensive pre-operative planning.
The impact of this is revealed in surveys carried out six months after surgery. Patients who’ve received Mako surgery report lower pain scores compared with conventional joint replacements and their satisfaction levels are higher. Prosthetic implants are also more accurately aligned when the surgeon uses Mako, leading to better performance and comfort.
Ongoing technological advances
Mako SmartRobotics technology is continuing to advance year-on-year. In 2024, Carrothers Orthopaedics is one of the leading pioneers of the new Mako Knee 2.0 software, which has been created in the wake of more than half a million Mako Total Knee procedures performed over the last six years. The new system allows for even greater accuracy which will likely improve patient outcomes still further.
What patients think
Feedback from patients who undergo Mako surgery with Andrew Carrothers is overwhelmingly positive. A review posted by a private patient at Nuffield Hospital Cambridge on 15 March 2024 on the website iwantgreatcare.org said:
“I had my 12-month review with Mr Carrothers this morning following two very successful total knee replacements performed four months apart and am now discharged from his care. To say I’m delighted with the results is a massive understatement. I am completely pain-free and enjoying my new-found mobility and regular exercise immensely. Having suffered with knee pain since 2009 and being advised by another consultant it’s best to wait until I was 65 before undergoing knee replacement surgery, I am so grateful to have been fortunate enough to hear about Mr Carrothers and the Mako robotic surgery.
“I was daunted by the prospect of having both knees replaced relatively close together, but I needn’t have been. With Mr Carrothers by your side on this journey, you cannot be in safer hands, an incredible, highly skilled surgeon and the most compassionate man. I will be forever indebted to Mr Carrothers for guiding me through this journey over the last year. Now to get on with enjoying the many activities that lie ahead and living life to the full.”
To date, Andrew Carrothers has performed more than 700 joint replacement procedures using the Mako SmartRobotics system. For more information 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.
