MAKO Robotic Assisted Knee Replacement

What is Mako Robotic-Arm Assisted Total Knee Replacement?

Total knee replacement surgery removes diseased and damaged knee bone and replaces it metal and plastic components to create a new joint that moves easily without causing any pain. Mako robotic-arm assisted total knee replacement is the newest advancement in total knee replacement surgery. Now, surgeons can make extremely precise bone cuts and place components in perfect anatomical positions. These benefits are seen because:

• MAKO software takes knee CT scan images and produces a 3D virtual knee model that the surgeon uses to plan surgery
• MAKO robotic arm makes programmed movements that eliminate even the smallest chances of human error

The procedure is performed on an inpatient basis under general anesthesia. Procedure steps are identical to total knee replacement ones but with the assistance of the MAKO robotic arm:

• Incision and joint exposure. A knee incision is made. Muscles and soft tissues are retracted.
• Implant preparation. Damaged bone and cartilage is carefully removed. The MAKO robotic arm makes perfect bone cuts.
• Implants. Perfectly sized implants are placed and cemented over precisely cut knee bones.

Patients go to their private hospital room after they are awake and alert. A 3-5 day hospital stay is usually necessary. Physical therapy is started while in the hospital and continued throughout recovery to gain flexibility, function, and strength. Pain and other symptoms dramatically decrease after the procedure and patients are able to live normal lives with minimal restrictions.

What Does Mako Robotic-Arm Assisted Total Knee Replacement Treat?

Arthritis is a chronic condition that slowly damages joint bone and cartilage. Knee arthritis is especially problematic because healthy individuals use their knees all day, every day. Nonsurgical treatment options may reduce early stage knee arthritis and prevent it from getting worse. Moderate to severe knee arthritis may require a total knee replacement. Symptoms patients should pay close attention to include the following:

• Pain
• Stiffness
• Swelling

Patients who experience symptoms and would like to receive a diagnosis and treatment plan
are encouraged to make an appointment with an Orthopaedic Institute Brielle Orthopaedics (OIO) Board-Certified and Fellowship Trained knee specialists Dr. John Tozzi and  Dr. Gregory Roehrig as soon as possible.