FAQ - MAKOplasty HIP

Frequently asked questions

 

Q What is MAKOplasty® Total Hip Arthroplasty?

 A MAKOplasty® Total Hip Arthroplasty (THA), is a procedure known as total hip replacement that is supported by the RIO® Robotic Arm Interactive Orthopedic System. It is indicated for patients who suffer from non-inflammatory or inflammatory degenerative joint disease. RIO® Robotic Arm Interactive Orthopedic System, allows surgeons to achieve a new level of precision with the newest techniques in hip replacement surgery.

 

Q How does MAKOplasty® THA work?

If your surgeon determines that you are a good candidate for the MAKOplasty®procedure, he or she will schedule a computed tomography (CT) scan of your hip one or two weeks prior to your surgery date. Then, a patient-specific 3-D model of your pelvis and femur from the CT scan is created pre-operatively to plan optimal implant placement.

During surgery, the RIO®guides the surgeon in preparing the hip anatomy and positioning the implants. Real-time data and images allow surgeons to know and control accurate implant placement, which can be difficult to achieve using traditional manual techniques.   

 

Q Who may be a candidate for MAKOplasty® Total Hip Replacement?

A candidate for MAKOplasty® Total Hip Replacement may experience the following: 

• Pain while putting weight on the affected hip

• Limping to lessen the weight-bearing pressure on the affected hip

• Pain that may radiate to the groin, lower back, or down the thigh to the knee

• Hip pain or stiffness during walking or other impact activities 

• Failure to respond to non-surgical treatments or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medication.

Only your surgeon can determine if you are a candidate for MAKOplasty® Total Hip Replacement.

Source: Centers for Disease Control (CDC).

 

Q How does MAKOplasty® Total Hip Replacement enhance traditional total hip surgery? 

This technology offers the potential for a higher level of patient–specific implant alignment and positioning to accurately reproduce the surgical plan, an aspect not consistently achieved in manual techniques.

Accurate alignment and positioning of hip implants are important factors affecting surgical outcomes and the lifespan of implants.

 

Q How can MAKOplasty® Total Hip Replacement Surgery benefit patients?

The robotic arm technology enables a new level of accuracy in implant alignment and positioning – that may mean restored mobility and a return to your active lifestyle.

 

Q What are the risks with a MAKOplasty® Total Hip Replacement Surgery?

 Individual results may vary. There are risks associated with any hip surgical procedure, including MAKOplasty® Total Hip Replacement. Your doctor can explain these risks and help determine if MAKOplasty® Total Hip Replacement is right for you.

 

Q What can I expect from my recovery and rehabilitation?

 A typical hospital stay for a total hip replacement is determined by your MAKOplasty® surgeon. Your surgeon will also determine what physical therapy may be prescribed for you.

 

Q What is the lifespan of MAKOplasty® implants?

 All implants have a life expectancy that depends on several factors, including the patient’s weight, activity level, quality of bone, and compliance with his/her physician’s orders. Proper implant alignment and accurate positioning during surgery are also very important factors that can improve the life expectancy of an implant. Through the use of the RIO® robotic arm system, implants may be more optimally aligned and positioned.

 

Q  What surgeon can perform MAKOplasty® Total Hip Replacement?

 To learn more and review the list of surgeons who perform the MAKOplasty® Total Hip Replacement, please visit our surgeon locator.

MAKOplasty® Total Hip Replacement is typically covered by Medicare. Check with your private health insurance company to verify coverage.

About Degenerative Joint Disease of the Hip

 

Q What is Degenerative Joint Disease or DJD of the hip?

 There are different types of DJD that may cause hip pain. These include but are not limited to:

• Osteoarthritis (OA), also called “wear and tear arthritis”, in which cartilage wears down over time1

• Post-traumatic arthritis, which results from a severe fracture or dislocation of the hip1

• Rheumatoid arthritis (RA), an inflammatory arthritis of the joints1

• Avascular necrosis (AVN), a condition where the “ball” or femoral head has lost its healthy supply of blood flow causing the bone to die and the femoral head to become misshapen2

• Hip dysplasia, a condition where bones around the hip did not form properly, which may cause misalignment of the hip joint3

Source: American Association of Orthopedic Surgeons.

 

Q What causes DJD of the hip?

 The risk of developing symptomatic DJD is influenced by multiple factors such as age, gender, and inherited traits that can affect the shape and stability of your joints4. Other factors can include:

• A previous hip injury

• Repetitive strain on the hip

• Improper joint alignment

• Being overweight

• Exercise or sports-generated stress placed on the hip joint

Source: American Association of Orthopedic Surgeons.

 

Q What are the symptoms of DJD5

• Pain while standing or walking short distances, climbing up or down stairs, or getting in and out of chairs

• Pain in the groin, thigh, or buttock area

• The affected hip feeling stiff or tight due to a loss in its range of motion

• Joint stiffness after getting out of bed

• Any signs of limping and/or favoring the opposite leg as to not put any weight on the affected hip joint