Joint replacement surgery is necessary for many people, especially those living with severe joint pain or osteoarthritis that interferes with daily activities. It's changed over the years, with robotic-assisted procedures becoming widespread.
Although a robot doesn't perform the surgery, the technology offers many benefits over traditional joint replacement procedures. Dr. Brandon Downs of Orthopaedic Specialists offers Mako Robotics for knee and hip replacements.
Robotic-assisted surgery is a cutting-edge technology used in various forms of medicine. Our practice uses the Stryker Mako SmartRobotics™ system for knee and hip replacements.
During robotic-assisted surgery, the robot doesn't perform the procedure; however, it does provide more precise cuts and measurements than a human could. The process starts with a CT scan of the damaged joint.
The CT scan provides the information we input into the robotic arm, which gives a 3D rendering of the joint, providing better customization and precision during surgery. The robotic arm precisely removes damaged tissues and bone and customizes the placement of the prosthetic.
Dr. Downs controls the robotic arm during the entire procedure, utilizing it to achieve the best patient outcomes.
Robotic joint replacements are an excellent option for people needing a total joint replacement. The robot offers many benefits over a traditional joint replacement, and they include the following:
The most significant benefit of robotic-assisted surgery is the precision it provides. The robotic arm has unparalleled movement and precision, which minimizes damage to surrounding tissue. The precise cuts and technology also improve patient outcomes.
The precision that the robotic arm offers aids in the recovery process. Most people can return to normal activities quickly because of the minimal tissue damage during surgery and better prosthetic accuracy.
We obtain imaging studies before the procedure to put direct measurements into the robotic arm. These measurements provide precise cuts, which lead to less tissue damage and blood loss. Less bleeding typically means a shorter hospital stay and less pain.
The robotic arm allows us to make smaller incisions, which reduces the risk of infection and cuts back on bleeding. There's also less tissue damage around the incisions, helping them heal faster.
Total joint replacements hurt for some time but less with the robotic-assisted procedure. The robot offers extreme precision, less tissue damage, and smaller incisions, all decreasing discomfort after surgery.
Most people with severe joint damage are candidates for robotic joint replacement surgery, but it's crucial to speak with Dr. Downs first. He evaluates MRIs, other imaging studies, and your health to determine your candidacy for the procedure.
Other aspects that make you a good candidate for this procedure include having severe joint pain that interferes with daily life and osteoarthritis. It's also an option if you've failed conservative treatments like physical therapy and joint injections.
People with unique anatomy or complicated joint conditions may benefit the most from robotic-assisted joint replacement surgery.
Call Dr. Downs at Orthopaedic Specialists today to schedule a joint replacement appointment at one of our five offices in the Nashville, Tennessee, area, or request a consultation on our website.
