A top knee surgeon in Southampton is among the first in the south to offer patients access to pioneering robotic joint replacement surgery.
Amir Qureshi, a consultant knee and limb reconstruction surgeon, is set to begin partial and total knee replacements in the city using the technology next month at the Nuffield Health Wessex Hospital.
The Stryker Mako robotic arm-assisted system is designed to make total knee, partial knee and hip replacement surgery more precise than ever before by creating a custom-made surgical experience.
Surgeons are able to develop a personalised plan for patients before they enter the operating theatre by using a 3D model of their anatomy created from a CT scan to determine the exact implant size required and correct positioning.
The robotic arm - which only moves when directed by the surgeon - then uses this information to cut and remove the bone allowing the implant to be fitted with precision, reducing the risk of surgical errors while helping to protect vital structures.
The technology, which is available at 15 centres across the UK, has been shown to reduce complications and readmissions and results in a quicker recovery and less post-operative pain.
Knee replacement surgery is the most common type of joint replacement operation in the UK, with more than 100,000 carried out on the NHS and privately every year - mainly as a result of wear and tear of the joints known as osteoarthritis.
“I am really excited to be able to offer patients access to this state-of-the-art technology, which is at the forefront of personalised healthcare - every patient will receive a unique surgical experience,” said Mr Qureshi, who also operates at Spire Southampton Hospital and University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust.
“The Mako robot enables us to make smaller incisions and precise removal of bone and either partial or total replacement - which results in less pain, quicker recovery and better movement.”
The procedure, which costs around £13,000, is currently only available privately. For more information or to make an appointment, call 023 8091 4505 or email deborah.clark@spirehealthcare.com.