Robotic-assisted joint replacement in Newcastle

What is the Stryker Mako system?

The Stryker MakoTM robotic system is a piece of state-of-the-art technology that assists surgeons when performing joint replacements, such as knee replacement or hip replacement. The system is now available at Nuffield Health Newcastle Upon Tyne Hospital.

Since the first Mako joint replacement was performed in 2006, more than 1.5 million procedures¹ have been performed around the world, from Scotland to New Zealand, using the Mako technology.

This proven and trusted system provides several patient benefits, over and above standard surgery, including:

• A surgical procedure that is fully customised to the patient’s anatomy.
• New levels of accuracy within the operation allow fine adjustments by the surgeon throughout the procedure.
• Precise and accurate surgery – a personal pre-op plan ensures Mako guides and assists the surgeon in placing the new implant in the optimal position.
• Faster recovery times with less post-op pain and increased mobility.

What is involved with robotic-assisted surgery?

Before surgery, the surgeon uses Mako technology to create a personalised surgical plan based on the unique requirements of the patient. First, a CT scan of the joint is taken, which is then uploaded into the Mako System software to create a 3D model of the joint. The surgeon will then use this 3D model to plan the surgery.

During surgery, the surgeon guides the robotic-arm within a pre-defined area, based on the pre-op plan. With the system helping the surgeon stay within the planned boundaries, they can more accurately place and align the implant.

Whilst the technology is a key component of the overall procedure, it is important to understand that the orthopaedic surgeon is in control of the surgery at all times, guiding the robotic-arm to position the implant in the joint. The Mako robotic-arm does not perform surgery, make decisions, or move without the surgeon guiding it, the technology assists the surgeon in delivering a superior result.

What happens after robotic-assisted joint replacement surgery?

Immediately after the surgery, and for the rest of your time at Nuffield Health Newcastle upon Tyne Hospital, your surgeon, nurses and physical therapist will closely monitor your condition and progress.

As soon as possible, your physical therapy will begin, with a lot of time being spent exercising the new joint as well as going through other exercises to help your body recover from surgery. You will be prescribed some pain medication, which will gradually be reduced following the procedure. Soon, your mobility will start to improve.

Before leaving the hospital, your physiotherapist will guide you through rehabilitation exercises to be done at home. Depending on limitations in movement, an occupational therapist may also provide direction on how to use devices to assist with daily tasks, such as bathing and dressing. Of course, support doesn’t end when you leave the hospital; you will be given information on follow-up appointments and contact details if you have any questions or struggles at home.

Robotic-assisted surgeries performed at Nuffield Health Newcastle Upon Tyne Hospital

• Robotic-assisted total knee replacement
• Robotic-assisted partial knee replacement
• Robotic-assisted total hip replacement

Our consultants

At Nuffield Health Newcastle upon Tyne Hospital, our experienced orthopaedic surgeons specialise in lower limb joint repair surgery, including robotic-assisted joint replacement. They’ll work with you to design a tailored treatment plan, ensuring you receive the care and support you need at every stage.

How to book a consultation at Nuffield Health Newcastle upon Tyne Hospital

To arrange a private consultation with one of our orthopaedic surgeons, you can book an appointment online, call us on 01913 232 211 or fill in the form below. 

Sources
1 - https://www.stryker.com/us/en/about/news/2025/stryker-showcases-next-generation-of-mako-smartrobotic...