Is Robotic-assisted Joint Replacement Right For You?
The idea of a robot performing surgery may seem like something from a science fiction film, but robots are an increasingly common sight in surgical suites. When it comes to certain types of joint replacement surgeries, robots can help improve accuracy — which can mean better outcomes for patients. If you’re facing surgery, you might be wondering if robotic-assisted surgery is appropriate for only certain patients. If you’re a good candidate for joint replacement surgery in general, robotic joint replacement is likely for you. Surgeons currently are using robotic technology for partial knee replacements, full knee replacements and hip replacements.
How Robotic-assisted Surgery Works
If you’re one of the millions of Americans suffering from pain caused by arthritis or an injury to the hip or knee, and you haven’t experienced adequate relief with conservative treatment options, Mako Robotic-Arm Assisted Surgery might be right for you.
Advantages Of Robotic-assisted Joint Replacement
Robotic-assisted surgery has the potential to speed recovery compared to standard procedures, according to Dr. Ravi Teja Rudraraju, Orthopedic Surgeon at Cleveland Clinic Foundation. It also allows a more customized, individually tailored approach. “What the robot allows us to do is to take into account the patient’s own anatomy, their soft tissue structure, and customize the surgery for them,…with the ability to customize joint replacement surgeries for each patient’s individual anatomy, robotic-assisted procedures offer hope for more successful hip and knee replacements.” Dr. Ravi Teja Rudraraju says.
The precision of robotic-assisted surgery allows for: More accurate implant positioning, which can result in a more natural feeling after surgery; Improved safety and reduced risk of injury to adjacent tissues; Small incisions; and the potential for better long-term function. In clinical studies, Mako Robotic-Assisted surgery resulted in: More accurate placement and alignment of hip implants based on the surgical plan, Less likelihood of hip dislocation, Reduced blood loss, Replication of the feeling of a natural hip, and Preservation of healthy bone.
Is Mako An Option For Me?
Mako robotic-assisted joint replacement is for people with: Severe joint pain or stiffness resulting from: noninflammatory degenerative joint disease (including osteoarthritis, traumatic arthritis, or avascular necrosis), rheumatoid arthritis or post-traumatic arthritis. Those who haven’t experienced adequate relief with conservative treatment options, like bracing, medication or joint fluid supplements should speak to a board-certified, experienced surgeon about Mako robotic-assisted joint replacement.
The surgical procedure takes a few hours. Your orthopedic surgeon will remove the damaged cartilage and bone and then position new metal, plastic, or ceramic implants to restore the alignment and function of your hip. After surgery, you will be moved to the recovery room where you will remain for several hours while your recovery from anesthesia is monitored. After you wake up, you will be taken to your hospital room. You will likely stay in the hospital for one to three days depending on your rehabilitation protocol and how fast you progress with physical therapy. This is highly dependent upon your condition before surgery, your age, and medical problems which can influence your rehabilitation. A safe discharge plan will be arranged for you by the orthopedic team.
Joint Replacement Recovery
Are you looking for Robotic-Assisted Joint Replacement Surgery
There are two ways to initiate a consultation with Dr. Ravi Teja Rudraraju
You can provide current X-rays and/or MRIs for a clinical case review with with Dr. Ravi Teja Rudraraju
You can schedule an office consultation with Dr. Ravi Teja Rudraraju