Ramsay Newsroom

The Mako system is an advanced, surgeon-controlled, robotic arm designed to increase the accuracy of partial and total knee and hip replacements.

Orthopaedic surgeon, Dr Andrew Gong, performed the hospital’s first procedure using the device earlier this month.

Dr Gong says the system allows for more precise planning of surgeries and is designed to offer better outcomes for patients.

“The Mako robot enables the surgeon to develop a 3D patient specific plan, based on the patient’s own anatomy, and to carry out that plan with increased accuracy and reproducibility,” Dr Gong said.

“The robot is designed to offer better patient outcomes including less disruption to soft tissue, meaning less pain in the early recovery period.

“The planning software also allows us to perform a virtual range of motion check before hip surgery, which can identify potential future issues like dislocation, so we can adjust the component position to avoid the problem.”

Dr Gong is one of three surgeons trained to use the device at Northern Private Hospital.

“I think it’s great that Northern Private Hospital has invested in this technology. Having access to the Mako here enables patients in the Northern suburbs to have modern, robotic-assisted surgery without having to travel longer distances or into the inner city,” Dr Gong said.

Northern Private Hospital CEO, Shaune Gillespie, said he was excited the hospital could provide the local community with access to this leading technology.

“Patients north of Melbourne can now have surgery supported by highly advanced robotic technology without having to travel into the CBD,” Mr Gillespie said.

“We’re committed to offering the local community leading private health care services close to home, and we’re proud to invest in robotic technology which is designed to offer improved surgical outcomes for patients.”