#United States #Long Beach #Robotic Surgery #Mako

Historic Milestone in Orthopedic Surgery

MemorialCare Long Beach Medical Center recently achieved a groundbreaking milestone by becoming the first hospital globally to successfully execute a robotic hip revision surgery utilizing Stryker's Mako Total Hip system equipped with the innovative 5.0 software. This pioneering achievement not only positions the medical center at the forefront of surgical innovation but also reflects its strong commitment to delivering exceptional patient care.

The Complexity of Hip Revision Surgery

Hip revision surgery is a complex medical procedure necessitated by various complications that can arise from prior joint replacements. These issues may include implant loosening, instability, or infections that compromise the joint’s functionality. Unlike primary hip surgeries, which involve straightforward procedures, revisions involve tackling existing implants, scar tissue, and compromised bone quality, which all contribute to increased difficulty and extended recovery times. Each year in the United States, approximately 70,000 hip revision procedures are performed, a figure projected to rise due to longer life expectancies and a growing desire for sustained joint functionality among aging individuals.

Significance of the Mako Total Hip System

The Mako Total Hip system represents a significant leap forward in orthopedic surgery, integrating advanced technologies such as 3D CT-based planning and AccuStop™ haptic technology. These innovations allow for highly customized procedures that not only target precision but also prioritize the conservation of vital bone and tissue during surgery. With the introduction of the Mako 4 SmartRobotics system, surgeons can benefit from live tracking capabilities during complex procedures, enhancing accuracy and improving patient outcomes.

Dr. Andrew Wassef, the medical director at the MemorialCare Joint Replacement Center, expressed pride in leading this historic procedure, emphasizing the center’s dedication to providing advanced and personalized surgical options. "Performing the world's first robotic hip revision using Mako Total Hip with 5.0 software is a testament to our commitment to delivering superior care and improving patient recovery times," he stated.

Patient Experiences and Clinical Benefits

After the surgery, Margaretha Vanderlaan, the first patient in the world to undergo the robotic hip revision with Mako 5.0, shared her experience, praising the exceptional care provided by Dr. Wassef and his team. She expressed gratitude for the confidence and support she received throughout the process, underscoring the importance of medical expertise coupled with compassionate patient care.

Robotic-assisted hip revision surgery boasts numerous clinical advantages, including less postoperative discomfort, smaller incisions, and shorter hospital stays. Patients can expect improved recovery times and a quicker return to normal daily activities, factors that significantly enhance their quality of life. In fact, studies suggest that individuals undergoing robotic hip procedures report a higher likelihood of achieving a feeling of normalcy in hip function compared to those who opt for traditional surgical methods.

Ongoing Advancements in Orthopedic Care

The increasing acceptance and implementation of robotic-assisted surgeries within healthcare systems worldwide highlight the potential for enhanced efficiency, decreased complications, and heightened patient satisfaction. This remarkable achievement reinforces Long Beach Medical Center's ongoing efforts to integrate cutting-edge technology into its surgical practices, ensuring that patients receive the best possible care.

As a member of the MemorialCare healthcare system, Long Beach Medical Center has delivered compassionate, high-quality healthcare for over a century. With various specialized centers and a commitment to medical excellence, it remains a leader in California's acute care landscape, as recognized by various health accolades.

The collaboration with Stryker, a global leader in medical technology, further exemplifies the center’s innovative spirit and dedication to making healthcare better. With over 1.5 million Mako procedures performed worldwide, the addition of the Mako THA 5.0 for hip revisions is set to redefine orthopedic care standards, improving both surgical precision and patient outcomes.

For more information about MemorialCare Long Beach Medical Center and its advanced healthcare offerings, please visit memorialcare.org/LongBeach.