Littleton Adventist Hospital Offers First-Ever Robotic-Arm Assisted Knee and Hip Replacement Procedures

Littleton Adventist Hospital is the first hospital in Colorado to offer robotic-arm assisted total knee, partial knee and total hip replacements with the Mako System. This advancement transforms how joint replacement surgeries are performed, enabling surgeons and patients to have a more predictable surgical experience.

Demand for joint replacements in the United States is expected to rise in the next decade, including a 673 percent rise in total knee replacements by 2030. Total hip replacements are estimated to increase by 174 percent. However, studies show that up to 30 percent of today's patients are unsatisfied after conventional joint replacement surgery.

"The Mako robotic-arm allows us to provide each patient with a personalized surgical experience that's specifically tailored to their needs and anatomy," said Dr. Robert Thomas, who performs joint replacements at Littleton Adventist with partner Dr. Tim Lehman. "Using a virtual 3D model, the Mako System allows surgeons to design each patient's surgical plan prior to surgery for more precise implant placement."

Through CT-based 3D modeling of bone anatomy, surgeons can use the Mako System to personalize surgical plans and identify the ideal implant size, orientation and alignment. The Mako System also enables surgeons to modify the surgical plan intra-operatively.

In addition, the Mako Partial knee application targets only the part of the joint damaged by osteoarthritis, allowing surgeons to resurface the diseased portion and spare the healthy bone and ligaments.

The Mako Total Hip application is for adults who suffer from degenerative joint disease. Studies show Mako total hip replacement acetabular cup placement is four times more accurate than manual hip replacement procedures.

"We're proud to be the first facility in our area to offer this advanced robotic technology," said Michael Brendel, Chief Operating Officer at Littleton Adventist. "This demonstrates our commitment to precision medicine and expands our regional leadership in robotic surgery."