Robotic Knee Replacement — Mako SmartRobotics™

What is robotic knee replacement?

Robotic-assisted total knee replacement using the Stryker Mako system represents a major step forward in surgical precision. The Mako system works alongside the surgeon, providing real-time, CT-based guidance that enables more accurate bone cuts, improved implant alignment, and intra-operative simulation of your knee mechanics.

How does Mako work for knee replacement?

• CT-guided pre-operative planning produces a precise 3D model of your femur and tibia for tailored implant sizing and alignment.
• Implant alignment simulation: leg alignment, rotation and tibial slope can all be optimised digitally before any bone is cut.
• Accurate bone cuts: haptic feedback prevents the surgeon from cutting beyond the planned zone, protecting cartilage and ligaments.
• Gap and balance simulation: medial and lateral compartment tension is measured at different flexion angles before implants are placed.
• Range of movement optimisation: final implant position can be fine-tuned on screen before any irreversible cuts.

Benefits

• Greater accuracy in bone cuts and implant positioning
• More consistent restoration of the mechanical axis of the leg
• Personalised to your CT — not a generic average
• Real-time feedback on soft tissue tension throughout movement
• Potentially better functional outcomes and reduced persistent post-operative pain
• Less bone removed — haptic guidance limits resection to exactly what is planned

Who is this for?

• Any patient suitable for total knee replacement who wants the most advanced planning and execution available
• Patients with complex deformity or revision-requiring anatomy
• Patients with high functional demands who want to optimise long-term outcomes

My approach

• Full CT-based pre-operative Mako planning
• Stryker Triathlon — Mako-compatible knee design
• No tourniquet; spinal anaesthesia; high-volume local anaesthetic infiltration
• Real-time gap and balance assessment using Mako
• Available at: Meriden Nuffield Health Hospital and University Hospitals Coventry & Warwickshire

Risks

• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE)
• Fracture
• Infection
• Stiffness
• Neurovascular injury
• Further surgery
• Failure of the implant
• Bleeding

Recovery

• Mobilising on the same day as surgery with physiotherapy
• Hospital stay: 1–2 days
• Driving: approximately 6 weeks
• Return to most daily activities: 12 weeks
• Full recovery and maximum function: up to 8 months