Stryker’s robot technology a first for Waverley Private

MedTech News: Mount Waverley residents will no longer need to travel to neighbouring suburbs to access robotic surgery for knee replacements, after Waverley Private Hospital invested in Stryker’s latest Mako robot technology.

The Mako system is a highly advanced, surgeon-controlled robotic arm that may help to increase the accuracy of total and partial knee replacements. It constructs a 3D model using a pre-operative CT scan and generates a plan around minute variations in a patient’s anatomy.

Orthopaedic surgeon, Mr Andrew Tang, said a potential benefit of the Mako technology was its improved accuracy.

“We know that when it comes to knee replacements accuracy equals longevity and the Mako system allows the surgeon to be within one degree of where you want to place the implant,” Mr Tang said.

“The group where robotic navigation makes the biggest difference is in males under the age of 68 having knee replacements, so having this technology at Waverley Private is great news for those members of the community.”

Waverley Private Chief Executive Officer, Lisa McFadden, said the Mako was a great investment for the hospital.

“The Mako robot broadens the options that our patients have here at Waverley Private,” Ms McFadden said.

“Previously they had to travel to other suburbs to access robotic surgery but now they can remain in their local area with their surgeon of choice.”

The Mako system is also expected to be used for hip replacements in the future.