Orthopedic Surgery with MAKO
What is MAKO?
MAKO is an innovative robotic-assisted system for orthopedic surgery, developed to ensure greater precision and safety during joint replacement procedures.
This system uses a robotic arm controlled by advanced software and computer-guided navigation to assist the surgeon in placing the prosthesis, thereby improving surgical outcomes. MAKO technology allows each operation to be tailored to the patient’s specific needs, reducing the risk of complications and enhancing post-operative recovery.
A Brief History of MAKO
MAKO was developed in response to the growing demand for advanced medical technologies, particularly in orthopedic surgery. Initially developed by Mako Surgical Corporation, the system was launched in 2006 with the aim of improving accuracy in partial knee replacements.
Over the years, MAKO has evolved to support total knee and hip replacements as well, becoming an essential tool in operating rooms for treating joint disorders. By combining advanced technologies, pre-operative 3D imaging, and personalized planning, MAKO has revolutionized the way surgeons approach complex procedures, minimizing errors and improving long-term outcomes for patients.
How a MAKO-Assisted Procedure Works
Melittaklinik represents excellence in healthcare and personal care in South Tyrol.
A MAKO-assisted procedure begins with a pre-operative planning phase in which 3D images of the affected joint are collected using CT scans. These images are used to create a virtual model of the joint, allowing the surgeon to plan the procedure with high precision and determine the optimal placement of the prosthesis.
During the operation, the surgeon uses the MAKO robotic arm to carry out the procedure according to the predefined plan. The MAKO system provides real-time guidance, continuously monitoring movements and assisting the surgeon in maintaining the required precision. Key features of a MAKO procedure include:
What Procedures Are Performed with the MAKO System?
The MAKO system is mainly used for joint replacement surgeries. The most common include:
-
Partial knee replacement: For patients with damage limited to part of the joint, preserving healthy tissue.
-
Total knee replacement: Used in cases of extensive damage or advanced osteoarthritis, replacing the entire joint.
-
Total hip replacement: For patients with severe hip damage or degeneration, such as osteoarthritis.
Each procedure is personalized based on the patient’s condition, thanks to 3D image-based planning and the precision of the robotic arm.
Benefits Compared to Traditional Therapies
Using the MAKO system offers several advantages over conventional surgical techniques. Firstly, the precision of the robotic arm reduces the risk of errors in prosthesis placement, ensuring more accurate and long-lasting results. Moreover, MAKO-assisted procedures help preserve healthy tissues, reducing surgical trauma and speeding up recovery.
Main benefits include:
-
Less invasive: More accurate procedures reduce the need for large incisions.
-
Faster recovery: Less tissue damage means a shorter rehabilitation period.
-
Better long-term outcomes: Thanks to precise prosthesis placement, patients can expect greater implant longevity and significantly improved quality of life.
This type of landing page provides a complete and informative overview of the MAKO system, using accessible and clear language for a non-expert audience while remaining precise in technical detail.
