Mako Robotic Arm-Assisted Surgery

If recurring joint pain keeps you from enjoying life to the fullest, now is the time to learn about our joint replacement treatment options. At San Ramon Regional Medical Center, we offer minimally invasive surgical options that can have faster healing times to help you get back on track with fewer aches and pains.

Robotic-Assisted Hip or Knee Surgery

San Ramon Regional Medical Center uses advanced robotic technology and three-dimensional (3D) modeling to make partial knee, total knee and total hip replacements more customized than traditional surgery.

Through virtual imaging, our joint replacement surgeons can map out each step of the surgical process before the procedure, allowing for the highest level of precision and efficiency. With the ability to treat each patient's unique needs, robotic-assisted orthopedic surgery typically results in a faster recovery and shorter hospital stay than traditional surgery. Patients usually experience a better fit, stability, balance and feel of the replaced joint.

What Is Joint Replacement Surgery?

Joint replacement surgery is performed to reduce pain from damaged or diseased joints. Worn-out joints are replaced with new parts or prosthetics made of metal, plastic or ceramic that are designed to replicate the movement of a natural and healthy joint. Surgeons may remove the whole joint, or replace or fix only the damaged parts. The most commonly replaced joints are those in the hips and knees.

Injuries and Conditions that May Need Hip or Knee Replacement Surgery

When nonsurgical procedures and medications do not relieve your joint pain, a minimally invasive hip or knee replacement using Mako robotic arm-assisted surgery may be an option.

The following are some of the injuries and conditions that may benefit from joint replacement:

• Osteoarthritis>
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Osteonecrosis
• Bone tumors
• Loss of joint cartilage
• Noninflammatory or inflammatory degenerative joint disease
• Injuries or broken bones from trauma

What Is the Advantage of Robotic Knee Replacement Surgery?

The Mako system has a robotic arm that orthopedic surgeons use to guide and perform joint replacement surgery. Its 3D computed tomography (CT)-based planning software allows orthopedic surgeons to precisely fit implants to replace damaged parts of the knee. During the actual surgery, Mako robotics also allow your surgeon to make adjustments to the surgical plan as needed.

How Do I Prepare for Joint Replacement Surgery?

In the weeks before your total joint replacement procedure, your doctor may check your overall health and require blood and imaging tests to help plan your surgery. You will also receive advice to prepare for the challenges that come with recovery and rehabilitation.

Some questions to ask your doctor include the following:

• What is the hospital's admission process?>
• What are the available implant or prosthesis options?
• How long is the recovery process?
• What medications should I take for pain management?

What Is the Recovery Time for Robotic Knee Replacement Surgery?

The course of recovery and rehabilitation differ for each person. Most patients experience some temporary pain in the replaced joint due to weakened muscles surrounding the joint. This pain should resolve in a few months. Exercise is an essential part of the recovery process, so your doctor or physical therapist may recommend a rehabilitation program that will help restore movement and strengthen the joint.

Robotic-Assisted Procedures Offered at San Ramon Regional Medical Center

Choosing your healthcare provider is an important decision to make. San Ramon Regional Medical Center has three robotic systems, including Mako robotics, for joint replacement surgery to better help people in San Ramon Valley and surrounding areas.

The following are some of the minimally invasive procedures available in our facility:

• Spine surgery
• Colorectal surgery
• General surgery
• Gynecologic surgery
• Thoracic surgery
• Urologic surgery
• Orthopedic surgery

When to Call an Orthopedic Doctor

Seek medical attention right away if you get hurt while participating in a sport or while exercising. Continuing to play or exercise can cause more harm. Call a doctor when you have any of the following symptoms:

• Pain that gets worse when doing activities
• Swelling in the injured area
• Limping
• Limited range of motion
• Pain that continues even with rest, then gets worse at times or lasts for a week or more following an injury
• Loss of consciousness

San Ramon Regional Medical Center has a network of Mako robotics-trained surgeons providing orthopedic care from diagnosis to rehabilitation. Count on us for compassionate care combined with advanced technologies and procedures. Call 833-275-0709 or fill out this form to request a referral today to learn about your treatment options.