Stryker’s orthopaedic robot a first for Central Queensland

MedTech News: Hillcrest Rockhampton Private Hospital has invested in a two-million-dollar robot, removing the need for Central Queensland residents undergoing partial or total knee replacement or total hip replacement to travel to South East Queensland to access the technology.

Hospital CEO Fiona Hebbard said the innovative technology is part of the hospital’s commitment to being the orthopaedic centre of excellence for Central Queensland.

“This is a huge win for regional Queenslanders, with world-leading technology now available locally for robotic-assisted total hip replacements and total knee and partial knee replacements,” Ms Hebbard said.

Ramsay Northern Operations Executive Samantha Dodd said the investment reflected Ramsay’s commitment to regional areas. “It is exciting to provide local surgeons with world-class technology so locals do not have to travel to Brisbane hospitals,” Ms Dodd said.

The robotic system is designed to assist surgeons, with data collected before and during surgery including CT-based 3D planning to help enhance pre-operative planning.

During the procedure, the surgeon can make adjustments if required, based on insights gained using the technology, for dynamic joint balancing.

The arrival of Stryker’s Mako robot adds to Hillcrest’s suite of surgical options for orthopaedic patients, ensuring Central Queenslanders have access to a range of treatments to suit their needs.