In the ever-evolving landscape of modern medicine, St. Gabriel’s Hospital and Little Falls Orthopedics have emerged as trailblazers, embracing cutting-edge robotic technology to revolutionize orthopedic care. Through the implementation of the Stryker Mako robotic system, the two are pioneering minimally invasive joint replacement surgeries, offering patients a future of improved mobility, reduced recovery times and enhanced quality of life.
At the forefront of this transformative endeavor are key members of the St. Gabriel’s Hospital and Little Falls Orthopedics teams, including Little Falls Orthopedic Clinic Administrator Tracy VanHercke and Vice President of Patient Care Services Maryrose Knutson, Surgical Director Brenda McIntyre and Volunteer and Marketing Coordinator Natalie Moen from St. Gabriel’s Hospital. These dedicated professionals shed light on the remarkable capabilities of the Mako system and its profound impact on patient care.
“What the robotic arm does is it actually makes the precision cuts in the bone,” McIntyre said. “So instead of the doctor just sawing bone, this does all that for him, and it’s accurate within a couple of millimeters. So you get a better fit and you get a better rotation.”
This level of accuracy is made possible through advanced software that integrates seamlessly with computed tomography (CT) scans, providing surgeons with a comprehensive 3D model of the patient’s anatomy.
“The surgeon actually guides the arm, but the robotics has the software loaded into it from the CT scan that will only allow the saw to go to certain areas,” VanHercke said. “So you don’t compromise any soft tissue or ligaments or anything like that the surgeon can’t visualize, necessarily, without that 3D imaging.”
This remarkable feature not only enhances surgical precision but also minimizes the risk of complications, ensuring optimal patient safety.
The hospital also assured patients that despite the significant costs of purchasing and setting up the Mako robotic system, as well as the cost of training staff to properly use it, surgery will not cost any more with this system than it would without it.
“We’re not billing anymore for using robotics in the surgery,” VanHercke said. “It’s just an enhancement.”
The Mako robotic system has been gaining widespread recognition and adoption across the globe, a testament to its transformative potential. This widespread adoption is a clear indication of the technology’s proven efficacy and the trust it has garnered within the medical community.
At St. Gabriel’s Hospital, the implementation of the Mako system has already yielded promising results. McIntyre shared that the hospital performed its first surgery using the new Mako system on Aug. 5, having done one more that week and already scheduling 22 robotic-assisted joint replacement cases for the future, with patient demand continuing to surge. This growing interest is fueled, in part, by the aging population and the increasing prevalence of conditions that necessitate joint replacements.
According to industry estimates cited by VanHercke, the demand for knee and hip replacements is expected to grow by 189% and 171%, respectively, by the year 2030. Robotic technology offers a compelling solution to meet this burgeoning demand, providing patients with a minimally invasive alternative that promises reduced recovery times, improved healing and a significant reduction in the need for pain medication.
Recognizing the importance of patient education, St. Gabriel’s Hospital has implemented comprehensive resources to ensure individuals are well-informed about the robotic surgery process.
VanHercke highlighted these efforts, sharing a patient brochure that gives those who want to learn more easy access to the most important information about the robotic-assisted procedure. The brochure serves as a valuable tool, providing patients with a clear understanding of what to expect before, during and after their robotic-assisted surgery. By empowering patients with knowledge, VanHercke said St. Gabriel’s Hospital aims to alleviate any concerns and foster a sense of confidence in this cutting-edge technology.
Beyond the immediate benefits to patients, the adoption of robotic technology in orthopedic care has far-reaching implications for the medical community. As pioneers in this field, St. Gabriel’s Hospital and Little Falls Orthopedics are paving the way for other healthcare institutions to embrace innovation and explore new frontiers in patient care.
All those present said the success of the Mako system at St. Gabriel’s Hospital was a testament to the hospital’s unwavering commitment to providing exceptional care and its dedication to staying at the forefront of medical advancements. By investing in state-of-the-art technology and fostering a culture of continuous improvement, the hospital is poised to solidify its position as a premier destination for orthopedic care in the region and beyond.
As the world of medicine continues to evolve, St. Gabriel’s Hospital and Little Falls Orthopedics stand as a shining example of how embracing innovation can transform lives, offering hope and renewed mobility to countless individuals in need of orthopedic care. With the Mako robotic system at the helm, the future of orthopedics has never looked brighter.
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