Which are the most well-known techniques used for a total arthroplasty?
In the past, a total knee or hip arthroplasty surgery was a long-lasting procedure that led to lots of blood loss, big cutting sections, and many days or even months for rehabilitation. This has changed once and for all. Besides the classic technique of total knee or hip arthroplasty, technology has contributed to the upbringing of brand-new techniques. As time passes, the results become even more impressive.
Which are the advantages of MAKO Smart Robotics© surgery system?
The millimeter precision in surgery execution practically equals a new prothesis/arthrosis being attached to the EXACT perfect spot for each patient. This leads to less (the least possible) trauma of soft tissues and, therefore, minimization of pain and fast mobility. The patients can move a few hours after surgery, while in 24 hours they can stand and walk, reducing the medication as well as the complications. In fact, the specialized fast-track postoperative protocols and the customized physiotherapy sessions can facilitate rehab even more. Furthermore, only MAKO 3D planning software allows for a perfect recording of the arthrosis, letting the surgeon know exactly what he’s about to meet in advance.
What kind of material is used in the new arthroplasty arthrosis?
The new prothesis to be attached are made of metal and polyethylene, which makes them time-proof. More precisely, Stryker’s prothesis materials for knee and hip (Triathlon, Accolade etc) offer an immediate, customized solution for every patient suffering from osteoarthritis and reassure longevity of the material, preventing a second surgery (total knee or hip revision arthroplasty) that might be needed in the past.
When can the patient exit the clinic after a fast-track arthroplasty?
The patient undergoing a robotics total knee arthroplasty or a robotics total hip arthroplasty with MAKO Smart Robotics©, is discharged from the clinic in 1-2 days. This mainly depends on his overall physical condition, and/or other health problems that might exist. The most important factor is to let the patient exit the clinic in safety and return to his everyday routine without any danger for his health.
What is the main difference between the digital arthroplasty (navigated surgery) and the robotic one?
Some patients confuse the two methods, falsely believing that navigation is robotics surgery. However, this is not true. Patients must understand that each method does not contradict with the other. Simply put, robotic surgery is the advancement of navigated. Both approaches to total arthroplasty offer amazing results, giving new options to the surgeon. They mainly differ preoperatively, as MAKO Smart Robotics software performs a 3D planning with even more technical details, showing the exact millimeter to cut, how many degrees to turn the arthrosis, and where exactly to attach it. The patients’ measurements are sent to the USA, where they are analyzed to prepare the perfect operation.
Can MAKO Smart Robotics© system be used by any orthopedic surgeon?
No! Only accredited orthopedics surgeons who received the necessary training can use it. MAKO system is located in only 1000 clinics around the world, mainly in the USA. In Greece, it is used by very few surgeons. It has recently come to Northern Greece, offering the chance to dozens of patients to choose it.
How do I know that I was operated with the use of the authentic MAKO Smart Robotics system?
Each patient after surgery receives a special folder and a card with his very own, unique patient identity (Mako Patient ID). This card certifies that the operation took place in a clinic that possesses the original MAKO robotic system, which is maintained according to all the protocols of the American company Stryker. The personal patient ID contains all the details of the surgery for future reference, and you receive it in an enclosed folder that has been delivered to your surgeon. Among other things, it certifies that your surgeon has received the necessary training and that during the surgery he used original orthopedic implants designed especially for this breakthrough technique.
Can robotic total knee and hip arthroplasty be performed in a public hospital?
Unfortunately, robotic arthroplasty for knee and hip with MAKO Smart Robotics is not available in public hospitals.
What is the cost for robotic total knee or hip arthroplasty?
The cost of the arthroplasty is NOT something standard but depends on factors like: the type of surgery (total, partial, revision arthroplasty), the technique to be used (simple, digital, robotic), the cost of the materials to be used, the days of hospitalization, the insurance of the patient (public, private) and other factors.
