Chronic joint pain does more than just hurt physically; it limits your world. It stops you from taking evening walks, playing with grandchildren, or simply navigating your home with confidence. For decades, joint replacement surgery has been the gold standard for restoring mobility, but even the most successful procedures have room for evolution.
At South Carolina Sports Medicine, our surgeons are committed to offering the highest level of medical care available. We believe that when new technology proves it can improve patient outcomes, our team has a responsibility to bring it to our practice. This dedication to innovation is why we are proud to offer MAKO Robotic-Arm Assisted Technology for our patients throughout Charleston, SC.
This advanced technology transforms the way joint replacement surgeries are performed, offering a level of precision that was previously difficult to achieve. By combining the steady hand and experience of our orthopedic surgeons with the accuracy of robotic technology, we are helping patients get back on their feet faster and with more confidence.
There is a common misconception that “robotic surgery” implies a robot is performing the operation while the surgeon watches from a console. This is not the case with the MAKO system.
MAKO is a robotic-arm assisted technology. Your orthopedic surgeon is in control 100% of the time. The robotic arm serves as a high-precision extension of the surgeon’s hands. It provides tactile, auditory, and visual feedback, ensuring that the surgeon stays within the pre-planned boundaries of the operation. This assistance allows for the precise removal of diseased bone and cartilage while preserving healthy bone and surrounding soft tissues.
We primarily utilize this technology for three specific procedures:
The success of a joint replacement relies heavily on two factors: planning and execution. The MAKO system enhances both stages through a personalized workflow.
Every patient’s anatomy is unique. A “one-size-fits-all” approach to implant placement can lead to discomfort or reduced longevity of the joint.
The MAKO process begins well before you enter the operating room. First, you will undergo an evaluation by your physician to determine if you are a candidate for surgery. If you proceed, a CT scan is taken of your affected joint. This is different from a standard X-ray because it provides a three-dimensional look at your specific bone structure.
This CT scan data is uploaded into the MAKO system software, which generates a 3D virtual model of your unique anatomy. Your surgeon uses this model to create a personalized surgical plan. They can determine the optimal size, placement, and alignment of your implant before making a single incision.
During surgery, the surgeon guides the robotic arm to remove arthritic bone and cartilage. This is where the technology truly shines. The system registers your anatomy to the 3D model created during the planning phase.
If the surgeon attempts to move the instrument outside the planned boundaries, the robotic arm provides resistance—a feature known as haptic feedback. This virtual safety zone helps protect your essential ligaments, nerves, and soft tissues from damage. Once the site is prepared, the surgeon implants the joint replacement components with a high degree of accuracy, knowing they are placed exactly according to the personalized plan.
Why do we invest in this technology? The answer lies in the benefits it provides to our patients in Charleston.
The longevity of a hip or knee implant often depends on how well it is aligned with your body’s natural mechanics. Improper alignment can lead to uneven wear, discomfort, and the need for revision surgery later in life. The data-driven approach of the MAKO system allows surgeons to place implants with sub-millimeter accuracy.
Because the robotic arm prevents the surgical instruments from moving outside the designated area, there is significantly less trauma to the surrounding tissues. Preserving healthy bone and ligaments is crucial for a more natural-feeling joint post-surgery.
The precision of the robotic arm often allows for smaller incisions. Less invasive surgery typically results in less postoperative pain and minimal scarring compared to traditional open surgery methods.
Advancements in surgical techniques and technology like MAKO have shifted the landscape of recovery. While some complex cases still require a hospital stay, many hip and knee replacements can now be performed on an outpatient basis.
Because the MAKO system facilitates less invasive procedures with reduced tissue trauma, many suitable candidates can return home the same day as their surgery. Recovering in the comfort of your own home, surrounded by family, can often lead to higher patient satisfaction and a lower risk of hospital-acquired infections.
Whether your procedure is inpatient or outpatient, the goal remains the same: a safe, effective surgery that restores your quality of life.
If you have been suffering from osteoarthritis or severe joint pain that hasn’t responded to non-surgical treatments, you might be a candidate for robotic-arm assisted surgery.
This technology is particularly beneficial for:
During your consultation at South Carolina Sports Medicine, we will review your history, imaging, and symptoms to determine the best pathway forward. We believe in educating our patients so they can make informed decisions about their health.
Living with joint pain can feel like a losing battle, but you don’t have to fight it alone. The combination of our skilled surgical team and the advanced capabilities of the MAKO Robotic-Arm Assisted Technology offers a promising path toward a pain-free life.
We are proud to serve the Charleston, SC community with top-tier orthopedic care. If you are ready to explore your options for hip or knee replacement, or if you simply want to understand more about how this technology works, we are here to help.
Contact South Carolina Sports Medicine today to schedule a consultation and learn how we can help you get back to doing what you love.
