Mako

Mako robotic arm-assisted surgery is a technology developed for total or partial knee and hip replacement operations.

It enables your orthopaedic surgeon to plan the positioning of the prosthesis according to your own anatomy, and then perform the operation using the robotic arm to precisely remove the damaged parts of the joint concerned. The aim is to receive the prosthesis in the optimum position to allow your new joint to function more naturally and physiologically.

What is the Mako robot?
Where is it used?
Advantages
Video: Mako in action
Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Mako robot?

This technology is based on a virtual 3D reconstruction of the unique anatomy of your knee based on images from a pre-operative scan. This model will be synchronised with anatomical landmarks during the operation. This makes it possible to adjust the planning, if necessary, during the operation and prepare the bone surfaces with an accuracy of around 0.5mm.


With numerous technological innovations over the years, the Mako is celebrating its 15th anniversary this year, with over 1,000 robots in operation and more than 300,000 operations performed worldwide.

In what areas is the Mako robot used?

Knee surgery

Mako technology is designed for patients suffering from osteoarthritis of the knee. This surgical robot can also be used to implant a full or partial prosthesis. 

Hip surgery

The Mako robot is also designed for patients with osteoarthritis of the hip. Thanks to three-dimensional reconstruction of the joint, it can be used to remove damaged parts with precision, or to fit a prosthesis.

What are the advantages of operating with the Mako robot?

Nearly 500 scientific articles have evaluated the various aspects of this technology in comparison with conventional techniques, supporting the finding that using the Mako offers advantages such as:

  • Reduced post-operative pain
  • Reduced perioperative blood loss
  • Faster functional recovery
  • Reduced complications related to implant positioning
  • Better preservation of bone stock
  • Reduced length of hospital stay
  • Can be used for partial or total knee and hip replacement
  • Creation and implementation of a surgical plan tailored to your anatomy
  • Helps to optimally prepare the bone to receive the implant
  • Allows more precise and functional placement of implants
  • Allows your surgeon to have a high degree of control and safety during all stages of implant placement

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the robot operate on its own?

No. The robot cannot operate on its own. It can only assist your surgeon, who remains in control throughout the operation.

What can I do if I have a prosthesis?

Your surgeon will guide you through the various stages of your rehabilitation. Generally speaking, once your surgeon has given you the go-ahead, you will gradually be able to resume all the daily and leisure activities you did before your operation. Low-impact activities such as walking, golf, cycling and swimming are particularly recommended.

How long does a prosthesis last?

The lifespan of implants will vary according to how the patient uses them. The more the prosthesis is used, the faster it will wear out. Currently, the average lifespan of a knee or hip prosthesis is between 20 and 25 years.
 

Qu’est-ce que l’arthrose ?

Osteoarthritis is the set of clinical and radiological symptoms observed when a joint wears out. This primarily concerns the cartilage covering our joints. This wear and tear can be responsible for pain, deformation and stiffness. It can affect any joint, but hips and knees are particularly prone.

What are the symptoms of osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis is most often manifested by the onset of spontaneous and progressive pain in a joint, which may vary in intensity over the course of the day depending on the activities performed. This is compounded by stiffness, deformity, limping and progressive loss of muscle in the affected limb. In some cases, the pain can be very disabling, preventing the patient from leading a normal life.

How is osteoarthritis diagnosed?

Osteoarthritis must be diagnosed by a specialist in orthopaedic surgery, usually on the basis of X-rays of the joint concerned. In some cases, additional imaging tests may be useful in making the diagnosis.

How is osteoarthritis treated?

Initial treatment of osteoarthritis focuses on pain relief. In the early stages, most patients will be relieved by painkillers, physiotherapy sessions and adapting their daily activities. When the pain is no longer relieved in this way, your surgeon may, if indicated, discuss with you an operation to replace the painful joint with a prosthesis.

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