Birmingham hospital introduces robot to assist with surgery

A hospital in Birmingham is the first in the country to use a robotic-arm to assist with hip replacement surgery.

The Royal Orthopaedic Hospital in Birmingham is using the Stryker Mako robotic-arm to transform how joint replacement surgery is performed. The system is allowing surgeons at the hospital to operate with more accuracy than usual.

Consultant orthopaedic surgeon, professor Edward Davis, said: “The Royal Orthopaedic Hospital has been pioneering care in the field of orthopaedics since its inception and this investment in leading-edge technology represents another exciting chapter in that story.

“With this technology we can provide each patient with a personalised surgical experience based on their specific diagnosis and anatomy.

“Using a virtual 3D model, Mako allows surgeons to create each patient’s surgical plan pre-operatively. During surgery, we can validate that plan and make any necessary adjustments while guiding the robotic-arm to execute that plan.

“It’s exciting to be able to offer this transformative technology to in our newly created Woodlands Suite offering state-of-the-art care to patients at every step of their journey through the process from planning to post-operative recuperation and care.”

The robotic-arm is being used to help with treatment for adults with degenerative joint disease of the hip. During procedures, the surgeon guides the robotic-arm during bone preparation to prepare the hip socket and position the implant according to the pre-determined surgical plan. Studies have shown that the system is four times more accurate and reproducible than manual hip replacement procedures.

Margaret Parkes was one of the women people to undergo the procedure at the Royal Orthopaedic Hospital, she said: “I’m so pleased with how my hip replacement went. It’s only been 24 hours since the procedure and I’ve already walked and even been up and down the stairs. I can’t believe how little pain there is.

“Professor Davis and the whole theatre team were a great support and allayed any fears I had beforehand. The Mako robotic arm technology the surgeons use is truly fascinating. I would totally recommend this surgery to anyone.”

Professor Davis continued: “We are proud to be the first NHS hospital to offer this highly advanced robotic technology in the UK.

“The addition of Mako to our orthopaedic service line further demonstrates our commitment to provide the community of Birmingham, the West Midlands and beyond with outstanding healthcare.”