MAKOplasty Partial Knee Resurfacing is a new procedure
that is designed to provide a quicker recovery and improved
outcomes for patients with joint degeneration in only one part
of the knee. By selectively targeting the portion of the knee
that has been damaged by osteoarthritis, surgeons can resurface
the damaged area without compromising the healthy bone and
tissues surrounding it. This procedure is made possible through
a surgeon controlled robotic-arm technology known as the MAKO Tactile
Guidance System. This technology allows the surgeon to pre-operatively plan removal of the damaged bone and the exact alignment and
positioning for the implant using a CT Scan taken of the
patient's knee. During surgery, this plan is carried
out utilizing a 3-D visualization system and an intelligent cutting
tool, providing the surgeon with visual, tactile
and auditory feedback throughout the procedure. This level of
precision enables surgeons to restore knee
function by resurfacing the arthritic defects rather than
replacing the entire knee, all within a 2-3 inch incision.
The MAKO Tactile Guidance System provides the surgeon with a
3-D visualization based on the patient's knee,
thus reducing the size of the incision the surgeon needs to
make. In addition, it is designed to assist in the precise
alignment and placement of the implant, thus reducing the chance
of implant failure due to poor placement.
The following links provide you with more information about
the MAKOplasty procedure: