Difference between Robot-Assisted TKR and Conventional?

The Mako robot is terrific but it still has to be operated by a human being. My surgeon uses the Mako robot for total hip replacements. Mine has been pain free and I was waiting and waiting until my surgeon felt that the bones had grown enough for me to resume athletic activities. Now seven months out and I have been on the golf course twice.

Even more important, IMHO, than using the robot is using a surgeon who has done many operations with the same approach and equipment. You don't want to be the surgeon's trial patient. For example, my surgeon has done more than 4,000 total hip replacements using the Superpath methodology (which, BTW, he invented).

I meant to say 7 weeks out.

I had two TKRs last year using Mako. Fabulous results, driving within 4 weeks.

How are you doing? I need 2 TKRs. One scheduled in one week. Hope you are able to do what makes you happy. Sheryl

Hi Sheryl! Best wished on your TKR!

I couldn’t be happier. I’m 68 y/o and was bone on bone from arthritis and running. I got my legs in shape with a trainer pre surgery, did ALL the recommended post op stuff, and now I’m in the gym 6 days/week.

All that pain is gone. I can’t do impact exercise, no running, jumping. But there is so much more I can do now.

The first week after surgery is the hardest, but completely doable. Then the pain starts to subside.

All the best to you!!!!!

Joe

Your note is so timely. I had my pre op surgeon appointment today. I have been planning now for months, but today I am feeling lost. I need a boost to get out of this mood. I know I am a fortunate one to have this chance at new knees again. What's wrong with me? No cold feet allowed.

I had the typical TKR and not robotic. I think it depends on the surgeon. Mine has done thousands of TKR and I am happy. The first few months were hard. At 7 months I'm doing everything I did and more. Yes, I still do too much and get sore by the end of the day but I'm getting stronger and things are moving along. It takes 6-12 months. yesterday I got on my hands and knees on the floor and got up on my own. I have no numbers anyplace and all my feeling has come back as well. My opposite foot Think has some issues with the top and ankle hurting but I might have favored it some. It's ok to be apprehensive. Just make sure you have a really good surgeon that I think that is the main key. You've got this.

Go for it. I almost jumped and changed my mind while getting ready for surgery. But i went thru with it and very happy. My knee feels so young after 4 months. Can do things I forgot I couldn’t do anymore because of pain.
Had robotic assistance surgery and couldn’t be happier.

Go for it Maggie. Now it's a big procedure so it's not gonna be very comfortable week 1. But they get you walking right after surgery (a pt will visit you), and then you go home and start the exercises the net day. Yes it's gonna hurt for a while. But remember what it feels like now.

Post op, you will get a little better each day. Just please, please, please, do the exercises at home, three times a day or whatever is recommended. It will pay off and you will be so happy.

All the best! Joe

Hi Joe, I love your note from afar.. it uplifted me first thing this morning. It's ike having more friends with me for support. I am glad it's the first beautiful days of Spring and not the 3' of snow we had. I am sitting outside as I write. I will remember your words about doing the exercises and continue to be faithful. Looking ahead to better days. Thank you. Sending you my thanks and enjoy your day too.