A new lease of life with Mako Robotic-Arm Assisted Knee Surgery: Mr Bernard’s Story

Learning through a patient event

Before his consultation, Mr Paul Bernard discovered that Mr Andrew Shepherd was delivering an educational patient event at Nuffield Health Warwickshire Hospital on robotic knee replacement surgery and the different treatment options available, including the Mako robotic-arm assisted knee replacement. Wanting to understand his choices more clearly, he attended the session.

“Listening to the talk meant I felt much more prepared and better informed going into my consultation,” Mr Bernard said.

Attending the event allowed Mr Bernard to hear directly from a consultant, learn about the benefits of Mako knee replacement, and ask questions. Most importantly, it helped him feel confident in the next steps of his treatment journey.

The decision for Mako Robotic-Arm Assisted Surgery

During Mr Bernard’s consultation, X-rays confirmed that his knee damage was advanced. After learning about the technology at the patient event, he felt reassured when Mr Shepherd recommended Mako robotic-assisted knee replacement.

The Mako technology uses CT-based 3D scan planning to create a personalised surgical plan for knee replacement. This approach enables surgeons to achieve greater accuracy in implant placement and precision knee implant positioning, which can lead to:

• Reduced pain after knee replacement
• Shorter hospital stays
• Faster return to activity after knee surgery
• Improved long-term outcomes

As a form of minimally invasive robotic knee surgery, the Mako system also supports better alignment and enhances function compared to traditional methods. Many patients ask, “Is Mako knee replacement better than traditional surgery?” — and for Mr Bernard, the results spoke for themselves.

From one knee to two

Encouraged by the success of his first Mako total knee replacement, Mr Bernard returned just 11 weeks later for his second knee. So pleased with the results, he chose to undergo the same robotic-arm assisted knee replacement surgery again.

Reflecting on his care, Mr Bernard said, “Both operations went extremely well and I was cared for by a fantastic team. From receptionist to ward staff to the surgical team, everyone took time to explain what was happening at every stage. I would happily recommend this hospital and this procedure to anyone.”

Clinical perspective

Mr Shepherd comments, “When patients come to our events, they can hear about the latest treatments in a relaxed environment and ask questions. For Mr Bernard, that meant he came to his consultation confident and well informed, and together we decided Mako robotic-arm assisted knee replacement surgery was the right choice for him.”

He also noted the advantages of advanced technology for knee arthritis treatment, including personalised surgical planning, intraoperative precision, and consistent implant placement — all of which support faster recovery and improved long-term outcomes.

A new lease on life

Thanks to the success of his Mako robotic knee replacements, Mr Bernard is now able to enjoy life again without the pain that once held him back. His story is a testament not only to advances in robotic-assisted surgery but also to the value of patient education events in helping people make informed choices.

Book a consultation

To book a consultation with Mr Andrew Shepherd, please call us on 01926 427971 or book directly online by clicking below to view his profile:

Last updated Tuesday 30 September 2025

First published on Tuesday 30 September 2025