Mako™ Total Hip Replacement

Hip replacement surgeries have been performed since 1960, with more than 300,000 total hip replacements performed yearly in the United States according to the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality. Since 1960, advancements in hip replacement techniques and technologies have improved the procedure and effectiveness for surgeons and patients.

Southeast Georgia Health System is the first hospital in the Southeast Georgia region to offer Mako Robotic-Arm Assisted Surgery, a new approach to traditional total hip replacements. Denny A. Carter, M.D. became the first orthopaedic surgeon on the Brunswick Campus to use the highly advanced, surgeon-controlled robotic arm system when performing a total hip replacement in October 2015.

A Mako procedure starts with a pre-operative CT scan of the patient’s hip. From the scan, a 3-D virtual model of the patient’s unique hip anatomy is generated. This model is loaded into the Mako system software and used to create a personalized surgical plan. During surgery, the highly advanced, physician-controlled robotic arm provides real-time visualization and measurements, enabling surgeons to make adjustments as needed and to control implant placement. Surgeons can now achieve previously unmatched levels of personalization and reproducible precision in hip implant position and alignment to fit the patient’s unique anatomy.

Who are candidates for Mako Total Hip Replacement?

Orthopaedic surgeons evaluate each individual patient based on pain and disability, regardless of age or weight, but candidates are typically those who have:

Hip pain that limits everyday activities, such as walking or bending
Hip pain that continues while resting, either day or night
Stiffness in a hip that limits the ability to move or lift the leg
Inadequate pain relief from anti-inflammatory drugs, physical therapy or walking supports

What are the benefits of Mako Total Hip Replacement as compared to traditional hip replacement?

Improved surgical outcomes
Enhanced gait
Consistency in leg length
Increased longevity of the implant

How do I get started with a Mako Total Hip Replacement?

For more information about Mako Total Hip Replacement, please call us at 912-466-2323 or toll free at 1-800-537-5142, ext. 2323.

The Perfect Fit

Healthy Partners, Summer 2016
New robotic technology for total hip replacement uses real-time data and precision imaging for more accurate joint replacement — and better results. Read our featured article in the Summer 2016 issue of Healthy Partners!