Knee and hip replacements are a major but often necessary decision for many patients, and the need for joint replacement surgeries is only growing. By 2030, it is estimated that total knee replacements will increase by a staggering 673% and total hip replacements will more than double, rising by 174%.
As the demand grows, the need for more affordable, highly efficient, and less invasive surgical techniques grows too. Thankfully, OrthoVirginia is ready to meet the moment as we are now the first outpatient operatory in Virginia to offer robotic arm-assisted total knee, partial knee, and total hip replacements with Stryker’s Mako System at our Herndon location.
What is the Mako?
The Mako is a robotic arm-assisted surgery system transforming the way joint replacement surgery is performed. This pioneering technology allows surgeons to increase the accuracy of a knee or hip replacement, creating a more predictable surgical experience.
Am I a good candidate for Mako Joint Replacement Surgery?
All patients requiring a knee or hip replacement are candidates for a Mako robotic arm assisted surgery. However, the surgeon performing the surgery must be trained on the system and think it is the correct method for your surgery. If you are interested in a Mako robotic arm assisted surgery for your joint replacement, talk with your doctor.
Pre-Op Preparation
- A CT scan is conducted on the damaged joint and software creates an individualized 3D model of your knee or hip. This 3D model helps surgeons form a more specific and personalized preoperative plan.
- The 3D model is uploaded into the Mako, and the surgeon guides the robotic arm during surgery, making any necessary adjustments as needed. The surgeon is in full control during the surgery; the Mako makes no decisions on its own.
- Due to the highly detailed preoperative plan and the technological precision of the Mako, your joint replacement surgery is less invasive.
Total Knee Replacement
A total knee replacement surgery with the Mako system will help reduce pain in patients who have worn-out knees because of arthritis. Your surgeon will take a CT scan of your knee and use it to make a 3D model. With this 3D model, they will plan the surgery ahead of time so they know exactly what kind of implant you need and how it will fit. The Mako system also helps if your surgeon has to adjust their plan in the middle of the operation and assists the surgeon in cutting into your knee.
Partial Knee Replacement
A partial knee replacement surgery with the Mako system will help reduce pain in patients who also have worn-out knees due to arthritis, but the damage hasn’t spread to all three areas of the knee. After making your 3D model and forming your surgery plan, the surgeon uses the Mako to fix only the damaged area of your knee. The healthy bone and ligaments are not touched.
Total Hip Replacement
A total hip replacement surgery with the Mako system will help reduce pain in patients whose hips are not working properly due to arthritis. Similarly to the total and partial knee surgeries, a CT scan of your hip will help create a 3D model for your surgery. Using the 3D model to make your surgery plan, the surgeon will then control the Mako to remove your damaged hip and place the implant.
What are the effects on recovery time?
The thought of the long recovery time for joint replacement surgery can be overwhelming, but the Mako system can reduce recovery time. Thanks to using the 3D model to create a more specific preoperative plan, the surgery is less invasive, and patients may return home the day of the operation. By removing the need for overnight hospital stays, the cost is significantly reduced.