Robotic-Assisted Hip Replacement

UW Hospital and Clinics in Madison, Wisconsin, offers robotic-assisted hip replacement for patients with degenerative hip joint disease.

Hip replacement, also known as total hip arthroplasty, using the MAKOplasty® surgical robot may be a treatment option for adults living with degenerative hip joint disease and provides a customized surgical service that is catered to the patient's specific hip characteristics. 

What is hip replacement?

Hip replacement is a surgical procedure in which diseased parts of the hip joint are removed and replaced with artificial new parts - a metal cup to replace the hip socket and a metal femoral stem to connect the hip to the leg.

About Robotic-assisted Hip Replacement

For patients deemed suitable candidates for robotic-assisted hip replacement, UW Health orthopedic surgeons use a computed tomography (CT) scan of the damaged hip to construct a three-dimensional model of the surgical area. 

During surgery, the surgical robot interprets the information provided by the CT scan and guides the surgeon in preparing the implant point and positioning the hip implant. The primary advantages of the robotic-assisted procedure are accuracy and precision. Accurate alignment and positioning of hip implants are critical factors in hip replacement procedures. The surgical robot provides a stable environment for hip replacement and clear, accurate information about the damaged hip that the surgeon can use for optimum implantation.

Additionally, the surgical robot's software maps out a detailed "envelope" in which the surgeon works, and will not allow for any movement outside of that envelope, minimizing the potential for damaging surrounding tissue.

Benefits of Robotic-assisted Hip Replacement

The precision of robotic-assisted surgery allows for:

• More accurate implant positioning, which can result in a more natural feeling after surgery
• Improved safety and reduced risk of injury to adjacent tissues
• Small incisions
• The potential for better long-term function

Patients Who May Benefit from Robotic-assisted Hip Replacement

UW Health orthopedic surgeons work with hip replacement candidates to determine the best course of treatment. In general, patients with hip symptoms that do not respond to non-surgical treatment and medication may benefit from robotic-assisted hip replacement. UW Health orthopedic surgeons determine the appropriate procedure on an individual basis.