Mako Robotic Total Knee Replacement - Dr. Nathaniel Stewart
Knee | Robotic-Assisted

Mako Robotic Total Knee

Full knee replacement with robotic arm precision, designed for patients with advanced arthritis and a goal of long term pain relief and restored function.

Mako
Technology
~1-1.5 hours
Procedure time
Same day or 1 night
Hospital stay
Indicated for
advanced knee arthritis

Overview - What is Mako Robotic Total Knee Replacement?

For patients with advanced arthritis affecting the entire knee joint, Mako Robotic Total Knee Replacement offers a highly accurate and personalized solution. Dr. Stewart uses the Mako System to replace the full joint while maintaining precise alignment and positioning of the implant relative to each patient's unique anatomy.

As with the partial knee procedure, a CT scan of the arthritic knee is taken and uploaded into the Mako System software, where a 3D model of your knee is created. Dr. Stewart uses this model to pre-plan and personalize your surgical approach before you enter the operating room. During surgery, he guides the robotic arm within pre-defined boundaries, ensuring the implant is placed with consistent accuracy.

It is important to understand that all surgical decisions remain entirely Dr. Stewart's throughout the procedure. The Mako robotic arm does not perform surgery, make decisions on its own, or move without the surgeon guiding it. Mako Total Knee Replacement is indicated for patients with degenerative osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and post-traumatic arthritis affecting the full knee joint.

Candidacy - Who Is a Good Candidate?

Mako Robotic Total Knee Replacement may be appropriate if you have:

  • Advanced osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or post-traumatic arthritis affecting the entire knee
  • Significant knee pain limiting your daily activities, sleep, or quality of life
  • Failed conservative treatments including physical therapy, injections, and activity modification
  • Knee deformity or instability affecting walking and function
  • Realistic goals and willingness to participate in post-operative rehabilitation

Recovery Timeline

Day of Surgery
Walking the same day
Most patients begin walking with assistance on the day of surgery. Hospital stay is typically 1 to 2 days. Discharged the day of surgery or the next day.
Week 1 to 2
Early mobilization
Physical therapy begins immediately, focused on regaining range of motion and reducing swelling. Ice, elevation, and pain management are central during this phase.
Week 2 to 6
Building strength
Walking improves steadily and most patients transition off assistive devices within 4 to 6 weeks.
Month 2 to 3
Return to daily life
Most patients are driving, walking independently, and managing daily activities comfortably by 8 weeks.
Month 3 to 12
Full recovery
Most patients feel their best between 6 and 12 months as strength, flexibility, and confidence continue to improve.

Procedure Videos

Watch the videos below to learn more about how Mako Robotic-Arm Assisted Technology works and what to expect from total knee replacement.

Frequently Asked Questions

Traditional total knee replacement relies on manual instruments and the surgeon's visual judgment for implant alignment. The Mako System adds a personalized pre-operative plan and a robotic arm that assists within defined safe boundaries during surgery, providing a level of precision and reproducibility beyond what manual techniques offer alone.
Low impact activities such as walking, swimming, and cycling are typically resumed within 2 to 3 months. Higher impact activities are evaluated individually. Dr. Stewart will provide guidance based on your implant type, healing progress, and personal goals.
Modern total knee implants are designed to last 15 to 20 or more years in most patients. Longevity depends on activity level, body weight, implant alignment, and overall health.
Total knee replacement is covered under most insurance plans when medical necessity criteria are met. Our team will verify your benefits before scheduling.
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Dr. Stewart and his team are here to guide you through every step, from your first consultation to your full recovery.

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