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Mako Robotic-Arm Surgery FAQ

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What is Mako Robotic-Arm Assisted Knee Surgery?

Mako robotic-arm assisted joint replacement is a modern type of knee surgery. It is used to treat adults who have early to middle-stage osteoarthritis (OA) in certain parts of the knee.

The surgeon uses a special robotic system to help guide the procedure. This system improves accuracy and helps the surgeon place the implant in the best position.

As a knee arthroplasty procedure, Mako Robotic-Arm Assisted Joint Replacements typically covered by most Medicare-approved and private health insurers.

To find a Mako Robotic-Arm Assisted Joint Replacement surgeon call 208-302-3500.

FAQs

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This procedure may:

  • Help the new joint feel more natural
  • Allow faster recovery than traditional knee replacement
  • Require a shorter hospital stay (sometimes you go home the same day)
  • Reduce pain and help you return to daily activities sooner
  • Smaller cuts (incisions)
  • Less scarring
  • Less blood loss
  • Shorter time in the hospital

During the surgery:

  • Only the damaged part of the knee is repaired.
  • Healthy bone and tissue are kept whenever possible.
  • A small artificial implant is placed in the knee.
  • This helps the knee move smoothly again.

 

  • Some people go home the same day; others stay 1–3 days.
  • Many patients can walk shortly after surgery.
  • Driving may be possible within about 2 weeks.
  • Normal activities can often be resumed fairly quickly.

You may be a good candidate if you:

  • Have knee pain during activity (like walking or climbing stairs)
  • Feel pain or stiffness when getting up from sitting
  • Have not improved with medications or other treatments

The life of the implant depends on things like:

  • Your weight
  • Your activity level
  • Bone health
  • Following your doctor’s instructions

Because the robotic system helps with precise placement, it may help the implant last longer.

Osteoarthritis is a condition where the cushioning (cartilage) in a joint wears down over time. When this happens:

  • The bones rub against each other
  • This causes pain, swelling, and stiffness

The exact cause isn’t always known, but risk factors include:

  • Aging
  • Past knee injuries
  • Repeated stress on the knee
  • Being overweight
  • Poor joint alignment

Common symptoms include:

  • Pain when walking, standing, or using stairs
  • Stiffness, especially after sitting or waking up
  • Swelling in the knee
  • A grinding or cracking feeling in the joint

Your doctor may:

  • Ask about your medical history and symptoms
  • Examine how your knee moves
  • Take X-rays or other scans
  • Run blood tests or check joint fluid if needed

Before surgery, doctors often recommend:

  • Lifestyle changes (like weight loss or exercise)
  • Physical therapy
  • Pain medications
  • Injections

If these don’t help, surgery may be an option.

  • Total knee replacement replaces the entire knee joint.
  • This is usually for severe arthritis.

If only part of your knee is damaged, Mako surgery may be a better option.