The realm of robotics has shown a positive impact on several areas of our world, and one top example is orthopedic surgery. In particular, the robotic arm applications of Mako Technology have already had a major impact on knee surgery and other kinds of orthopedic surgery – and are certain to play a key role in the future of such applications.
At The Orthopaedic Center, we’re proud to offer the best orthopedic surgeons you’ll find in Tulsa, Jenks and nearby areas, offering orthopedic surgery options that include knee and hip replacements, shoulder and elbow surgery, and much more. We’re a provider of Mako Technology robotics assists for many of our orthopedic surgery programs. How does the Mako robotic arm work for these surgeries, and how has it revolutionized this field? Let’s look into this, plus forecast how the future is likely to look here.
How the Mako Robotic Arm Works For Orthopedic Surgery
When used for any kind of orthopedic surgery, the Mako robotic arm has multiple roles:
- 3D modeling and preoperative planning: One of the chief features of the Mako system is that it allows our surgeons to create personalized, 3D models of each patient’s anatomy. This enables a highly detailed and accurate preoperative plan, which leads to better results for every patient.
- Implant selection: Based on this 3D modeling, our surgeons are able to choose just the right size and placement for the implant. This is important because every patient’s anatomy is different, and standard measurements may not fit perfectly.
- Intraoperative assistance: During surgery itself, the Mako robotic arm is used for real-time tracking and guidance. It guides precise placement of implants to optimize everything from range of motion to stability and alignment. It also allows for a singular incision to complete the entire surgery, minimizing infection risk.
- Postoperative follow-up: After surgery is completed, the Mako robot can provide postoperative scans and data to assist surgeons in evaluating the patient’s progress and ensuring optimal recovery.
Revolutionizing Orthopedic Surgery
The Mako robotic arm has revolutionized orthopedic surgery in several ways, including:
- Enhanced precision: The technological advancements of the Mako system allow for unparalleled accuracy and precision in preoperative planning, implant selection, and intraoperative assistance. This results in better outcomes for patients as well as increased efficiency for surgeons.
- Minimized risk: With its 3D modeling capability, the Mako robot reduces the chances of human error during preoperative planning and implant placement. Additionally, its single-incision approach minimizes infection risks associated with multiple incisions.
- Customization: Each patient’s anatomy is unique, and the Mako robot enables surgeons to tailor their approach accordingly. This customization leads to better fit and function for each individual.
- Singular incision: The Mako robotic arm allows for a single, smaller incision to be made during surgery, minimizing scarring and promoting faster recovery for patients.
The Future of Robotics in Orthopedic Surgery
While Mako Technology has already made a huge impact on orthopedic surgery, there is still much room for growth and innovation in this field. Here are some potential developments we could see in the near future:
- Use with other orthopedic procedures: Currently, Mako is primarily used for knee and hip replacements. However, there is potential for it to be utilized in other types of orthopedic surgeries such as spine or foot operations.
- Integration with artificial intelligence: As AI technology continues to advance, we may see the incorporation of intelligent algorithms into the Mako system. This could potentially improve decision-making during surgery and enhance postoperative follow-up.
- Expansion to other medical fields: The success of Mako Technology in orthopedic surgery could lead to its adoption in other areas of medicine where precision and accuracy are crucial, such as neurosurgery or cardiology.
- Enhanced imaging capabilities: Another potential development is the use of advanced imaging techniques, such as MRI or CT scans, to further improve preoperative planning and intraoperative guidance with the Mako robotic arm.
The utilization of robotics in orthopedic surgery has already made a significant impact on patient outcomes. The Mako robotic arm, in particular, has revolutionized this field and continues to show promise for even greater advancements in the future.
At The Orthopaedic Center, we are committed to staying at the forefront of technology and providing our patients with the best possible care through innovations like Mako Technology. We look forward to seeing where this exciting technology takes us next. Contact us today to learn about any of our orthopedic surgery programs for patients around Tulsa, Jenks and nearby areas!