Dr. Anthony Gualtieri is an avid proponent for the increasing role of robotic technology in orthopedic surgery. Of the hundreds of joint replacements he performed during his training, 25-50% of them were performed with technological assistance. He is excited by the recent acquisition by Beverly Hospital of a MAKO robot for total joint replacement surgery.

The MAKO robot from Stryker is one of the most widely used robots in total joint replacement surgery. It utilizes a software system that allows the surgeon to create a personalized surgical plan based on the patient’s unique anatomy. This plan includes a 3D model of the patient’s joint and specifies the exact size and position of the implants.

During the surgery, the MAKO robot is used to assist the surgeon in performing precise cuts to the bone and positioning the implant with high accuracy.

The robot is equipped with a haptic feedback system, which provides the surgeon with tactile feedback and helps to ensure that the cuts are made with the appropriate level of force and precision.

One of the key benefits of the MAKO robot is that it enables the surgeon to make real-time adjustments during the surgery, if necessary. For example, if the surgeon encounters unexpected variations in the patient’s anatomy, they can use the robot to modify the surgical plan and adjust the implant placement accordingly.

Overall, the MAKO robot is a highly advanced tool that enables surgeons to perform total joint replacement surgery with a high degree of accuracy and precision. By leveraging the power of robotic technology, it has the potential to improve outcomes and reduce recovery times for patients undergoing this procedure.