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Frequently Asked Questions on Mako Robotic Surgery

As technology advances, there are many evolutions on the surgical front. One such advancement that has been developing across the 21st century is the use of robotic arms to assist surgery. A good example of this is the Mako Robotic assisted surgery technique that is becoming more and more common in the Green Bay and Appleton areas.

Many people find this type of technology both fascinating and overwhelming. To gain a better understanding of what goes on when a robotic arm assists with surgery, here are some frequently asked questions and their answers on the topic.

What is this surgery?

The Mako system transforms the way hip and knee joint replacements are done. Using a software to create a 3D plan, the system tailors the techniques and performances to the patient’s specific height, weight, and anatomical structure. It takes into account finer details that surgeons can’t do with their eyes.

What are the advantages of this?

Technology proves to have many advantages in many ways. In this case, it offers a more precise and accurate surgical performance. It minimizes the risk of tissue damage and human error. It also allows the surgeon to be minimally invasive and create less scar tissue at the end of the operation.

Does the robot actually perform the surgery?

The robot component works together with the human surgeon. It doesn’t work independently during the operation. The surgeon guides the arm within the predefined area across the patient’s body. The arm is guided into the joint area to remove any affected bone mass or cartilage before inserting the replacement joint.

Who is this recommended for?

This procedure is generally safe for all knee and hip replacement candidates. It can assist patients who suffer from arthritis, chronic pain, crippled joints, and those who have experienced sporting injuries. It is often not recommended for people who are overweight or obese for health and safety reasons.

What about the recovery time?

With the use of this technology, many patients find that they have a shorter recovery time. This can depend on other factors. However, most patients can be walking again within the first day or two and get back to their normal routine within six weeks. Typically, most patients will only spend one night or two in the hospital to ensure they are monitored closely in the initial hours after the operation.  This is because the technology is more precise, tailored to the specific patient’s individual body, and is less invasive during the operation. Of course, care and attention still need to be taken to ensure a successful recovery.

Starting Your Total Joint Replacement Journey

To find out if robotic surgery is right for you, get started by requesting a consultation with one of the joint replacement specialists at the Orthopedic & Sports Institute (OSI). Please call (920) 560-1000 or request an appointment online. OSI is Northeast Wisconsin’s exclusive provider of Mako Robotic-Arm Assisted Surgery for Hips & Knees.

OSI has convenient locations to serve you. The campus in Appleton includes a clinics, a surgery center, MRI, physical therapy, and a skilled nursing facility, as well as a walk-in clinic that provides care for new orthopedic injuries.

OSI has outreach clinics in New London, Ripon, Shawano, Waupaca, and the newest location serving the Green Bay area, inside the NOVO Health Clinic in De Pere.

OSI is a proud member of NOVO Health.