Robotic Assisted Hip & Knee Replacement Surgery
Precision, Personalisation, and Better Outcomes
Joint replacement surgery has transformed the lives of millions of people suffering from arthritis and chronic joint pain. Advances in technology continue to improve the accuracy and predictability of these procedures, and one of the most significant developments in recent years has been robotic-assisted surgery.
Dr Collins uses the Mako robotic to assist in joint replacement surgery, it is designed to help surgeons perform knee and hip replacement procedures with a higher degree of precision, using a personalised surgical plan tailored to each patient's unique anatomy and needs.
What Is Mako Robotic-Assisted Surgery?
Mako Robotic-Arm Assisted Surgery is an advanced surgical system used during total knee replacement, partial knee replacement, and total hip replacement procedures. Contrary to a common misconception, the robot does not perform the surgery independently. Dr Collins remains in complete control throughout the operation.
The Mako system combines three key components:
A detailed pre-operative CT scan
Advanced 3D planning software
A robotic arm that assists Dr Collins during the procedure
This technology enables surgeons to create a customised surgical plan before entering the operating theatre and execute that plan with exceptional accuracy.
How Does Mako Work?
1. Pre-Operative Planning
Before surgery, a CT scan of the affected joint is performed. This scan creates a three-dimensional model of the patient's anatomy, allowing the Dr Collins to:
Assess bone structure and alignment
Evaluate joint deformity
Determine the optimal implant size and position
Develop a personalised surgical plan
Rather than relying solely on standard anatomical landmarks, the surgical plan is tailored specifically to the individual patient.
2. Intra-Operative Guidance
During surgery, the Mako system continuously tracks the position of the patient's joint and the surgical instruments in real time.
The robotic arm provides haptic feedback, which creates a virtual boundary around the planned surgical area. This assists Dr Collins in performing bone preparation within the predefined plan while protecting surrounding structures.
3. Precise Implant Placement
Accurate implant positioning is one of the most important factors influencing the long-term success of joint replacement surgery. Mako technology helps Dr Collins achieve precise alignment and implant placement based on the patient's individual anatomy and soft tissue balance.
Benefits of Mako Knee Replacement
For patients undergoing knee replacement surgery, robotic assistance may offer several advantages:
Improved Accuracy
Research has consistently shown that robotic-assisted knee replacement can improve the accuracy of implant positioning compared with conventional techniques.
More accurate alignment may contribute to:
Improved knee function
Better joint stability
More natural movement
Reduced implant wear over time
Personalised Soft Tissue Balancing
Every knee is different. Mako allows Dr Collins to assess ligament tension and joint balance throughout the procedure and make real-time adjustments to optimise knee function.
Potential for Faster Recovery
While recovery varies between individuals, many patients report:
Improved early function
Greater confidence in the replaced joint
A smoother rehabilitation process
Recovery still depends on factors such as overall health, physiotherapy participation, and adherence to post-operative instructions.
Benefits of Mako Hip Replacement
In total hip replacement surgery, implant positioning is critical for achieving stability, restoring leg length, and maximising range of motion.
Mako technology assists Dr Collins by:
Optimising cup placement
Improving implant alignment
Restoring hip biomechanics -ensuring accurate leg length
Reducing the risk of impingement
Enhancing joint stability
Accurate implant positioning may also help reduce the risk of complications such as dislocation, leg length discrepance and loosening.
Is the Robot Performing the Operation?
No.
Dr Collins performs every step of the procedure. The robotic arm acts as an advanced surgical tool that enhances precision and provides real-time feedback throughout the operation.
Think of Mako as a sophisticated navigation system that assists Dr Collins in carrying out a highly personalised and accurate surgical plan.
Who Is a Candidate for Mako Surgery?
Mako robotic-assisted technology may be suitable for patients with:
Advanced knee arthritis
Osteoarthritis affecting part of the knee
Severe hip arthritis
Persistent joint pain that has not responded to non-surgical treatment
Not every patient requires robotic assistance, and suitability is determined after a thorough clinical assessment, imaging review, and discussion of treatment goals.
What Can Patients Expect After Surgery?
Recovery following robotic-assisted joint replacement is similar to traditional joint replacement surgery.
Most patients can expect:
Early mobilisation after surgery
Guided physiotherapy rehabilitation
Progressive improvement in pain and function
Return to normal daily activities over the following weeks and months
While robotic technology enhances surgical precision, successful outcomes still depend on appropriate rehabilitation and patient engagement throughout the recovery process.
The Future of Joint Replacement
Robotic-assisted surgery represents an important evolution in orthopaedic care. By combining detailed pre-operative planning with real-time intra-operative precision, Mako technology allows surgeons to perform knee and hip replacement procedures with a level of accuracy that was previously difficult to achieve.
For patients considering joint replacement surgery, robotic assistance offers a personalised approach designed to optimise implant positioning, improve joint function, and support long-term outcomes.
The Final Word - Do you have to use a robot? No, Dr Collins trained for over a decade without it, and is happy doing your surgery without the robotic-assistance, but now uses it routinely as he strongly believes in giving you, the patient, the best outcome possible and believes the robot makes the surgery safer and more reliable.
Considering Knee or Hip Replacement?
If arthritis is affecting your quality of life and limiting your ability to stay active, a consultation with Dr Collins, an experienced orthopaedic surgeon, can help determine whether robotic-assisted joint replacement is an appropriate option for you. Together, you can explore the available treatment options and develop a plan tailored to your individual needs and goals.
