Nickel free robotic TKR

Posted by tkrfuture @tkrfuture, Apr 9, 2025

Does Mayo Clinic Jacksonville Florida do a TKR with ceramic implant (due to my nickel allergy, no titanium) and use a robotic assist. Both the nickel allergy and the need for TKR are confirmed by medical professionals. Any information provided is appreciated, thank you!

Interested in more discussions like this? Go to the Joint Replacements Support Group.

Understand. Smith and Nephew Journey + Zimmer Biomet offers 2 excellent Nickle free options too.

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Profile picture for tkrfuture @tkrfuture

Sue, Thank you for your kind response. I will attempt to find contact information for Jacksonville Ortho/Joint Replacement department. I think contacting them via email will be appropriate.
I would hope to have any feedback, from this group with information on know manufacturers of ceramic knee replacements. Google searches have not provided me with enough information.

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Facilities like the Mayo Clinic (Cleveland Clinic, etc.) are wonderful, especially in diagnosing weird conditions. But...when it comes to finding the best surgeon for a particular situation, that often is not some one at Mayo. You will find a consistently higher level of care at Mayo than any other local facility but not necessarily the best particular specialist for a specific condition.

My knee surgeon uses a robot (CORI) and an implant made of oxinium:
https://www.smith-nephew.com/en-us/health-care-professionals/products/orthopaedics/oxinium
I don't know whether that combo meets your requirements. If so, there are probably a number of surgeons out there doing both.

So I would recommend doing some research.

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Profile picture for tkrfuture @tkrfuture

I used a metal testing kit (about $125) as a resource, you might find it to be helpful. I purchased the kit from Amazon or you can check online for other purchase options. My nickel response was very intense. No response to the other tested metals including titanium. I am aware there are trace amounts of nickel in titanium, that may over time be an issue.

Look for : Allergy Test Kit Medical Metal Implants - Tests 7 Common Metals Including Nickel - Wearable Easy Use - Visit the Sensiband Store

Of course, diagnosis must come from a physician.
Best wishes in your journey with your knee implants.

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@tkrfuture
UPDATE: I am approximately 3 weeks post op from
TKR. My nickel allergy was of concern to my orthopedic surgeon. Because I wanted a robotic assist surgery, I was so happy to learn that Stryker/Mako would have a nickel free (Triathlon GOLD, implant limited US rollout in early 2026.) I was able to manage the wait for the NEW implant by twice weekly physical therapy to build strength and balance. I'm doing very well. Only OTC pain meds after the first 5 days post op, walking with a cane around the 2 week time frame and now no longer needing any assist device for walking. My ROM is about 95 (continuing to improve) my pre op extension was -11 (now -2.) Icing and elevation help so much.

I want those of you on the fence and fearful of TKR to have some peace of mind. Please, research your choice of surgeon and find the practice that suits your needs. My surgical team was amazing, my PT folks continue to help me progress and my SURGEON was fantastic! I had limited swelling and minimal bruising. With time you will be ready for your knee replacement and resuming an active life. I'm not sure exactly when but I will be having second TKR this year.
Best wishes to each of you on this TKR journey!

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