Dr. Harwin offers robotic assisted hip and knee replacements using Mako™ Robotic-Arm technology. Mako™ Robotic-Arm technology offers many benefits over traditional surgical methods and can be helpful in restoring mobility for patients suffering from arthritis in the hip or knee that has not responded to nonsurgical treatments.
In addition to his experience with Mako Robotic-Arm Assisted surgery, Dr. Harwin has extensive experience with joint replacements, having performed over 12,000 over the course of his career. Mako technology helps Dr. Harwin further his goal of providing the best possible results for patients needing hip and knee replacements.
What Is Involved with Robotic Assisted Joint Replacement Surgery?
With Mako Robotic-Arm Assisted hip or knee replacement, Dr. Harwin is able to create a 3D model of the joint that allows him to pre-plan the surgery. This is done using a CT scan of the hip or knee taken prior to surgery. Dr. Harwin then uses this information in combination with the Mako software to create a personalized plan for the joint replacement procedure. This plan helps Dr. Harwin determine implant placement on the day of the procedure
During surgery, Dr. Harwin guides the robotic arm to prepare the joint for the implants by removing the damaged and diseased portions of bone and tissue. The robotic arm then helps to guide the placement of the implants based on the surgical plan set by Dr. Harwin with the Mako software. Dr. Harwin can make adjustments to the surgical plan as needed during the procedure. Though the phrase “robotic-arm assisted joint replacement” makes it sound as though the robot is performing the surgery, Dr. Harwin is in complete control for the duration of the procedure. The Mako Robotic-Arm and accompanying software simply provide a plan to help with implant placement.
What Are the Benefits of Mako Robotic-Arm Assisted Joint Replacement?
A Mako hip or knee replacement may be helpful in restoring mobility in patients with severe arthritis of the hip or knee, for whom nonsurgical treatments have been ineffective. Mako technology helps Dr. Harwin position the implant and preserve healthy bone, which can improve the outcome of the surgery and allow for a more natural feeling in the new joint. The accuracy of the implant placement may also mean that the implant lasts longer.
Robotic assisted hip and knee replacements can also be done with smaller incisions than those needed for traditional joint replacements. This can result in less scarring and blood loss, a reduced hospital stay, and a quicker recovery. Quicker recovery times are often associated with quicker pain relief and a quicker return to activity.
Who is a Candidate for Mako Robotic-Arm Assisted Joint Replacement?
Candidates for Mako Robotic-Arm Assisted joint replacements typically have pain in the affected joint, especially while performing certain activities or putting weight on the joint. The joint may become painful or stiff with activity, and may force the patient to avoid certain activities altogether. Some patients begin limping to lessen the weight on the painful joint.
Typically, these patients have undergone an extended course treatment with nonsurgical methods like anti-inflammatory medications, injections, and physical therapy, but have not had relief from these treatments. At this point, joint replacement surgery may be considered. Dr. Harwin evaluates each patient on a case-by-case basis to determine whether robotic assisted joint replacement surgery is the right option for the patient’s needs and lifestyle.
Mako Robotic-Arm Assisted Joint Replacement in New York City
Dr. Steven Harwin has extensive experience in performing hip and knee replacements and currently serves as the Chief of Advanced Technology of Total Hip and Knee Arthroplasty at Mount Sinai West in New York City. He seeks to provide the latest advances in joint replacement, including Mako Robotic-Arm Assisted joint replacement, to provide the best possible results for patients needing surgery. If you would like to learn more about robotic assisted joint replacement or schedule an appointment with Dr. Harwin, please call his office at (212) 861-1700.
Source Material
https://patients.stryker.com/hip-replacement/procedures/mako-robotic-arm-assisted
https://patients.stryker.com/knee-replacement/procedures/mako-robotic-arm-assisted-total-knee
