As orthopaedic surgeons, we are always looking for ways to improve outcomes for our patients. And one of the most effective ways that we have found in recent years is to supplement the skill of our surgeons with leading edge technology.
The Mako system, developed by Stryker, uses a robotic arm to assist the surgeon on the operating table and state-of-the-art computer software to support detailed pre-operative planning.
It is resulting in better outcomes for patients, including less post-surgical pain and shorter recovery times. Here’s how it works….
Mako robotic arm-assisted total knee replacement
Before the surgery itself, you will have a CT scan of your damaged knee joint. This will be uploaded into the Mako system software which enable the surgeon to create a detailed 3D impression of your joint. This is used to plan your knee replacement surgery so the surgeon can see which parts of the joint need to be removed and which parts are healthy and can be retained.
During the surgery itself, the surgeon follows this pre-operative plan, using the robotic arm to make precise cuts so that only diseased bone and cartilage is removed. Once the joint has been prepared, the prosthetic implant is carefully positioned and fixed into place before the incision is closed up and you are taken to the recovery room.
What are the advantages?
In joint replacement surgery, absolute precision is key, as even a fractional misalignment of the implant can cause problems over time. Greater accuracy is one main benefits of using the Mako system. Improved precision leads to more consistent and predictable results.
Patients who have Mako robotic arm assisted surgery, generally, report higher satisfaction scores and they recover faster than those having conventional surgery.
They also experience less pain, according to surveys carried out six months after surgery. And, although it might not be the patient’s primary consideration right now, by preserving as much healthy bone and tissue as possible, the Mako system helps to ensure that if the patient subsequently needs surgery to replace a worn-out implant (the average lifespan of a prosthesis is around 20 years), the procedure is likely to be more successful.
Are there any disadvantages?
All surgery comes with a possibility of complications. In the case of a total knee replacement, the risks include:
- Complications associated with having anaesthetic, which include vomiting and dizziness.
- Blood clots
- Infection
- Persistent pain
Your orthopaedic surgeon will explain any risks associated with your procedure and will advise you on any warning signs to look out for. You are not exposed to any greater risks having robotic arm-assisted surgery than you would be with conventional knee replacement surgery. In fact, because you spend a shorter time on the operating table the risks may be less.
Is robotic assisted surgery suitable for everyone?
You will only be offered a total knee replacement if you have severe knee pain caused by a degenerative condition like osteoarthritis. You may also need this type of surgery if you have a severe knee injury, rheumatoid arthritis or gout.
More than 70,000 knee replacements are carried out in England and Wales each year so it is a routine procedure. However, your orthopaedic surgeon will recommend other, less invasive treatments until your condition becomes severe. This is because all surgery, no matter how routine, carries a certain amount of risk so if there is an alternative treatment to relieve your symptoms, we will always try this first.
Also, an artificial knee lasts around 20 years in most cases, so the longer we can delay your initial surgery, the lower the chances of needing to have a revision knee replacement (which means removing the worn-out implant and replacing it with a new one). However, if you are a candidate for total knee replacement, there is no reason why you cannot have a robotic arm-assisted procedure if your surgeon has the facilities to use the Mako system.
Some patients can feel a little uneasy about the idea of a robotic arm used during surgery, so your surgeon will explain the procedure to you and do their best to allay any fears. Ultimately, it is your choice. Surgeons provide the information you need to be able to make an informed decision.
How can I find out more?
If you are interested in finding out more about total knee replacement surgery or the pros and cons of Mako, contact us.
A Leading Team of Orthopaedic Specialists – North Yorkshire
We are a team of specialist orthopaedic surgeons each of whom has a particular area of expertise. Not only are we the largest orthopaedic practice in North Yorkshire but we have been established the longest and have many satisfied patients. Take a look at our Testimonials page to see what they say.
Telephone: 01904 373032
Email: info@yorkorthopaedics.co.uk
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Clifton Park Hospital – Main Hospital Shipton Rd, Rawcliffe, York YO30 5RA – Directions
Clifton Park Hospital – Outpatients Department, Equinox House, Clifton Park Ave, York YO30 5PA – Directions
Nuffield York Hospital – Haxby Rd, Clifton, York YO31 8TA – Directions
