Sovah Health’s Martinsville campus has added robotic-assisted technology for joint replacement surgery. Orthopedic surgeons who are specially trained to use the new system will use it for total knee and hip replacement procedures transforming the way joint replacement surgery is performed. Since welcoming the new technology in January, the surgical team has performed 18 procedures. The robotic technology was made possible by a nearly $1 million investment from LifePoint Health, of which Sovah Health is a part.
“Patients often delay joint replacement surgery until the pain is unbearable, which affects their daily activities and quality of life,” said Susanne Washburn, RN, Total Joint Coordinator at Sovah Health – Martinsville (SHM). “Having access to innovative robotic technology close to home is a great reason to consider a hip or knee replacement now, rather than waiting.”
Benefits of robotic-assisted joint replacement may include:
• Smaller incisions
• Faster recovery
• Optimal implant placement
• Potentially reduced impact to surrounding soft tissue
• Dynamic joint balancing
It is important to note that in robotic-assisted joint replacement surgery, the entire procedure from planning to implantation is performed by an orthopedic surgeon. The robotic technology is an advanced tool that provides additional precision and accuracy for the surgery but does not replace the skill of the surgeon.
“Robotic-arm assisted surgery is changing the way joint replacement surgeries are performed by providing each patient with a personalized surgical experience based on their specific diagnosis and anatomy,” said Dr. Uosife Alfahd, orthopedic and total joint surgeon at Sovah Health. “Using a virtual 3D model, the Mako System allows surgeons to create each patient’s surgical plan pre-operatively before entering the operating room. During surgery, the surgeon can validate that plan and make any necessary adjustments while guiding the robotic-arm to execute that plan. It’s exciting to be able to offer this transformative technology for our patients.”
“The new robotic surgical system helps our orthopedic surgeons ensure the precise positioning and placement of the prosthetic joint during surgery,” said Dale Alward, Chief Executive Officer at SHM. “We are proud to now offer this advanced robotic technology in our area as we expand our orthopedics program to meet the needs of our patients.”
The technology was on display at the Martinsville Henry County Chamber of Commerce Fast Track on March 3 & 4 where the public was be able to interact with the robot. Sovah Health is seeking help from the community to name the robot. To learn more and submit your name idea, go online at SovahHealth.com/Community/Robot. The winner will receive prize from their winning submission.
To learn more about robotic-assisted joint replacement and non-surgical ways to manage joint pain, patients can take a FREE health assessment at SovahOrtho.com.
