What is robotic knee replacement?
Knee replacement involves resurfacing the worn surfaces of the knee joint with metal and plastic implants. How well it achieves that depends, in large part, on how accurately the implants are positioned. Robotic-assisted knee replacement uses a pre-operative CT scan to build a 3D model of your knee and a surgeon-controlled robotic arm to carry out the plan in theatre. The result is implants placed to match your anatomy — not an average knee, but yours specifically.
“Every knee is slightly different. The way your joint is loaded, the alignment of your leg, the shape of your bones — these all affect where the implants need to go. The MAKO system lets me plan for your knee before I enter theatre, and then execute that plan with a level of precision I can’t achieve freehand.”
— Dr Luke Mooney
How it works
Pre-operative planning
A CT scan of your knee and leg creates a 3D model of your specific anatomy. Dr Mooney uses the model to plan the size and position of each implant component, the alignment of the leg, and the balance of the soft tissues — all before the operation.
In theatre
On the day of surgery, Dr Mooney uses a curved lateral incision. As he prepares the bone surfaces and positions the implants, the MAKO system provides live feedback and keeps bone preparation within the planned safe zone.
Confirmation before closure
Before the incision is closed, final implant position is confirmed against the plan. Any fine adjustments are made before you leave theatre.
What to expect after surgery
Day 1–2Physiotherapy begins. Walking with a frame. Discharge typically 2–3 days.
Week 2–4Walking with a stick. Swelling reducing. Physiotherapy at home or outpatient.
Week 4–6Most daily tasks independently. Driving when leg control has returned.
3 monthsSwimming and stationary cycling. Most daily activities comfortable.
6–12 monthsFull recovery for most patients.
