Robot revolution for WA shoulder surgery

Hollywood Private Hospital in Western Australia is using one of the most advanced robotic surgical systems to revolutionise shoulder replacement surgery.

Australia's largest private hospital is the first in the state, and one of the first in the world, to successfully perform a total shoulder replacement using the MAKO robotic system.

The MAKO robot is usually used for knee and hip joint replacement surgery but an upgrade this year has extended its capabilities.

Hollywood-based orthopaedic surgeon Dr Travis Falconer said the recent shoulder procedure was a significant milestone in orthopaedics in WA.

"The MAKO robotic system enables a level of surgical precision that traditional methods simply cannot match," Dr Falconer said.

"While experienced surgeons typically position joint replacements within 1-2mm of the CT-generated surgical plan, the integration of the robot refines this accuracy even further, achieving placement within just 0.1 mm of the planned position."

Dr Falconer said the MAKO system was particularly remarkable in how it enhanced the surgeon's expertise rather than replacing it.

"This technology provides real-time feedback, helping to safeguard healthy tissue and preserve the patient's bone, while I remain in full control of the procedure," he said.

"This synergy of surgical expertise and robotic precision truly represents the future of joint replacement surgery."

The technology is designed to enable:

• Enhanced surgical precision with real-time feedback and control
• Improved component positioning and alignment
• A less invasive approach that preserves bone and soft tissue
• Reduced surgical trauma compared to conventional techniques
• Personalised treatment planning based on each patient's unique anatomy.

The clinical benefits are expected to mirror robotic knee and hip replacement surgery, with decreased pain for patients, along with a reduced length of stay in hospital, and greater range of motion and shoulder function.

The MAKO system transforms shoulder replacement surgery through a three-stage process:

• Pre-operative planning: Prior to surgery, patients undergo a CT scan that creates a detailed 3D model of their shoulder anatomy. Surgeons use this model to plan the precise positioning and sizing of the implant, customised to each patient's specific needs.
• Intra-operative guidance: During surgery, the MAKO robot provides the surgeon with real-time visual and haptic (touch) feedback. The system helps guide bone preparation with exceptional accuracy, ensuring optimal implant positioning.
• Controlled precision: The robotic arm allows surgeons to perform bone preparation within pre-defined boundaries. If it moves outside these safe zones, the system provides resistance, helping to protect surrounding healthy tissue and ensure precise implant placement.

A spokesperson for the Perth hospital said Hollywood Private was renowned for world-class orthopaedic services, bringing together leading specialists, advanced technology, and comprehensive patient care.

The Nedlands-based Ramsay Health Care facility also has the da Vinci Xi and ROSA surgical assistant among its robotic systems.

Read more: Heart care expansion at Hollywood Private Hospital

Read more: 30 years of growth at Australia's biggest private hospital

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