Cheyenne Regional Medical Center Now Offers Cutting-Edge MAKO® Robotic-Arm Assisted Hip and Knee Replacements
Cheyenne Regional Medical Center is now providing patients with a new option for hip and knee pain relief: MAKO® robotic-arm assisted procedures. This advanced technology promises increased precision, potentially leading to faster recovery times and a return to an active lifestyle for those suffering from debilitating joint pain.
Addressing Chronic Joint Pain with Robotic Precision
For individuals grappling with chronic hip or knee pain, a MAKO® procedure may represent a significant step toward regaining mobility and quality of life. The system utilizes a robotic arm to assist surgeons in performing partial or total joint replacements with a level of accuracy difficult to achieve with traditional methods.
How MAKO® Works: A Closer Look
MAKO® is not a fully autonomous robot; rather, it’s a sophisticated tool that empowers surgeons. In the case of MAKO® partial knee resurfacing, the technology is designed to relieve pain caused by joint degeneration due to osteoarthritis (OA). The system allows surgeons to selectively target and resurface only the damaged portion of the knee, preserving healthy bone and ligaments.
According to the provided information, MAKO® partial knee resurfacing can:
- Enable surgeons to precisely resurface only the arthritic portion of the knee.
- Preserve healthy tissue and bone.
- Facilitate optimal implant positioning for a more natural-feeling knee.
- Result in a more rapid recovery and shorter hospital stay compared to traditional total knee replacement surgery.
Unlike more invasive procedures, MAKO® often allows for a smaller incision – typically four to six inches – with additional small incisions in the femur (thigh bone) and tibia (shin). This minimally invasive approach, coupled with the preservation of healthy bone, may even allow patients to remain candidates for a total knee replacement in the future if necessary. The procedure is generally indicated for patients with unicompartmental or bicompartmental knee disease.
MAKO® for Hip Replacement: Restoring Mobility
The MAKO® system is also utilized for total hip arthroplasty, designed for patients suffering from inflammatory or non-inflammatory degenerative hip joint disease. These conditions often lead to chronic pain and a diminished quality of life. The robotic arm assists surgeons in achieving a new level of precision during implant placement, utilizing real-time information and images of the hip.
Benefits of MAKO® total hip arthroplasty may include:
- Accurate implant placement, potentially reducing the risk of hip dislocation.
- Improved consistency in leg length, potentially eliminating the need for a shoe lift.
- Decreased risk of implant and bone rubbing, potentially extending the implant’s lifespan.
Prior to MAKO® total hip arthroplasty, surgeons will typically schedule a computed tomography (CT) scan of the hip, one to two weeks before surgery, to create a personalized surgical plan.
Insurance Coverage and Considerations
Both MAKO® knee and hip replacement procedures are typically covered by insurance, though patients are advised to verify coverage with their health insurer. In some cases, the procedures may even be performed on an outpatient basis, depending on the surgeon’s assessment.
It is crucial for patients to discuss the specific risks associated with MAKO® and other treatment options with their physician, as well as receive detailed pre- and post-operative instructions.
To schedule a consultation with Cheyenne Regional Medical Center regarding MAKO® procedures, please call (307) 633-7744.
