Robot-assisted joint replacement
Mako robotics – robot-assisted hip and knee replacements in Greifswald
We use the Mako robotic arm to implant hip and knee prostheses following precise 3D planning. The robot does not perform the operation; I do. The robotic arm helps me implement the plan with millimetre precision. I have already implanted more than 500 joint replacements with robotic assistance. Robot-assisted joint replacement is part of everyday practice at our clinic at University Medicine Greifswald.
How does Mako robotic surgery work?
1. Computer planning
Before the operation, a computed tomography (CT) scan of your joint is performed. This creates a three-dimensional model of your anatomy. We use this model to plan the size and position of your prosthesis individually.
2. Fine-tuning in the operating theatre
During the operation, we check the plan at the joint itself, for example ligament tension at the knee or leg length at the hip, and adjust it if necessary.
3. Precise execution
I guide the robotic arm myself. It limits the saw or burr to the planned area. This means only as much bone is prepared as planned, protecting the surrounding tissue.
Mako at the knee
We use Mako for all common types of knee prosthesis:
- Total knee replacement: replacement of the entire knee joint for advanced osteoarthritis
- Partial replacement (unicompartmental prosthesis): replacement of only the worn part of the knee joint, preserving ligaments and healthy joint areas
- Patellofemoral replacement: replacement of only the kneecap gliding surface for isolated osteoarthritis behind the kneecap
Precise positioning is particularly important for partial prostheses. This is where robotics first convinced me.
Mako at the hip
At the hip, Mako primarily helps with precise placement of the hip socket and restoration of leg length and joint geometry. This is particularly valuable in difficult starting situations, such as hip dysplasia, after previous operations or with pelvic deformities. We combine robotics with the anterior, muscle-sparing approach.
What does robotics offer?
- High precision: the prosthesis is implanted as planned
- Individual planning: based on your own 3D anatomy
- Tissue protection: the saw and burr work only within the planned area
- Better ligament balance at the knee: ligament tension is measured and considered during the operation
Studies show that prostheses implanted with robotics are positioned more accurately. Whether this leads to greater long-term durability is currently being investigated in studies and registries. For me, robotics is a valuable tool, but it is not necessary in every case. We decide together which approach is best for you.
Frequently asked questions about Mako robotic surgery
Does the robot operate independently?
Why do I need a CT scan before the operation?
Which prostheses can Mako be used for?
Is robot-assisted surgery safe?
Does a robotically implanted prosthesis last longer?
Does surgery with robotics take longer?
Is robotic surgery suitable for me?
Which documents do I need for an assessment?
Why Greifswald?
- More than 500 joint replacements personally implanted with robotic assistance
- Mako at the hip and knee: total replacement, unicompartmental prosthesis and patellofemoral replacement
- Combined with the anterior, muscle-sparing approach at the hip
- Everything from one source: robotics, freehand technique, ceramic hip resurfacing and revision surgery
- I am personally available for you before and after the operation
Contact
Would you like to know whether robot-assisted surgery is suitable for you? Write to me directly at georgi.wassilew@med.uni-greifswald.de. To make an appointment, contact the clinic at ortho@med.uni-greifswald.de.
Univ.-Prof. Dr. med. Georgi WassilewDepartment of Orthopaedics, Trauma Surgery and Rehabilitative MedicineUniversity Medicine Greifswald