What are the Benefits of Having a Mako Robotic-Assisted Knee Replacement?

Osteoarthritis can make everyday activities difficult to perform, and if non-surgical treatments aren’t effective, surgery may be your best option to relieve pain and stiffness. Knee replacement surgery is more precise and effective than ever before, with a newer technology, Mako robotic-assisted knee replacement, now available.

In his blog, the orthopaedists at Specialty Orthopaedics in Harrison NY outline the benefits of Mako robotic-assisted knee replacement surgery:

What is Mako robotic-arm assisted surgery?

Mako robotic-arm assisted surgery is a technology developed for knee replacement surgeries. It allows your orthopedic surgeon to pre-plan your surgery using Mako’s software and then perform the operation by guiding the robotic arm to precisely remove bone and cartilage.

Why is it used?

This technology allows your surgeon to use a CT scan to create a 3D virtual model of your knee’s unique anatomy. The uniquely detailed and personalized view enables him or her to create a surgery plan that can be adjusted if necessary during the surgery.

In addition, when your surgeon prepares the bone for the implant, the robotic arm guides the surgeon within the predefined area, allowing for a more accurate and better-aligned knee replacement.

What does the procedure involve?

Your surgeon will use Mako to make a 3-D virtual model of your knee. He or she will then virtually put the implant in place, and once it’s in the proper position, this plan can be implemented during surgery.

As you’re under general anesthesia, Mako’s robot arm, along with the doctor, will hold the surgical instrument. Your surgeon will be able to see the pre-surgical plan overlaid on the real-time surgery to use as a guide, and the instruments are under his or her control the entire time.

The robotic instrument has tracking eyes and can adjust for very small movements of the knee if they occur. It precisely prepares the bone according to visual boundaries that protect the essential structure of the knee and removes only the part that’s been affected. The implant is placed, the joint is properly balanced, and if necessary, your surgeon can make adjustments if needed.

What are the benefits of Mako robotic-arm assisted surgery?

This type of technology provides the following benefits:

• Can be used for partial or total knee replacements
• Helps create a personalized surgical plan
• Gives your surgeon real-time sensory feedback
• Makes your surgeon in complete control
• Helps ensure proper preparation of the bone
• Allows for precise placement of the implant
• Produces minimal blood loss and a smaller scar
• Helps preserve healthy bone and soft tissue
• Results in less post-operative pain than manual techniques
• Provides a quicker recovery and shorter hospital stay

What is recovery like?

Recovery is usually quicker than it is with traditional knee replacement methods. You may be able to walk just hours after your surgery, and you’ll probably be able to return to your everyday activities in 1-4 weeks. The exact amount of time depends on your health and the extent of your surgery.

Who makes a good candidate for Mako robotic-assisted knee replacement?

If the following apply to you, you may want to talk to your doctor about this technology:

• Osteoarthritis
• Knee pain or stiffness with activity or when getting up from a sitting position
• Inadequate response to non-surgical treatments such as anti-inflammatory medication

If you have pain and stiffness of the knee due to osteoarthritis and want to learn more about Mako, make an appointment today with Specialty Orthopaedics of Harrison, NY. We’ll devise an effective treatment plan based on your unique circumstances to help provide you with relief and get you moving again.