From Staff Reports:

Artesia General hospital (AGH) is celebrating a major milestone:  October marks 10 years of using the Mako robotic-arm assisted surgery system, which has revolutionized joint replacement procedures in the area and changed the lives of countless patients. Since being the first hospital in New Mexico to introduce it into its surgical suite a decade ago, the Mako system has become a vital tool for orthopedic surgeons performing total knee, partial knee, shoulder and hip replacement surgeries. The technology allows for an unprecedented level of precision in joint replacement, leading to faster recovery times, fewer complications, and improved patient outcomes. It also cuts down on travel for area patients.

Dr. Marshall Baca, an orthopedic surgeon at AGH’s Bone and Joint Destination Center, who is entering his 30th year practicing in the Artesia and Carlsbad Area, has been using the Mako robot since its implementation. “The Mako has completely transformed how we approach joint replacement surgery. Its precision allows me to tailor each procedure to the individual patient’s anatomy, resulting in faster recovery times, reduced pain, and improved outcomes. I’ve seen firsthand how this technology changes lives, and it’s an incredible tool in providing the highest level of care,” he said.

Baca said that the precision and reliability of the Mako led to the hiring of Dr Zhinian Wan, and the long-term success of the orthopedics department at AGH.  Wan was also involved in the actual development of the Mako unit and has coauthored many scientific publications during his work in joint replacement at UCLA.

Over the last 10 years, the use of the Mako robot has dramatically improved the quality of care for patients at AGH undergoing Total Knee Replacement, Total Hip Replacement and Uni Medial Partial Knee Replacement. Patients report less pain, and quicker returns to their normal activities.

Sandra Trujillo who works in the surgical services dept at AGH as a scheduler was the first patient in Southeast NM that the robot was used on. She underwent a Mako Uni Medial Partial Knee Replacement, a surgical procedure that uses a robotic arm to perform a partial knee replacement while preserving healthy bone and tissue.

“I had knee issues because of sports, tore my meniscus 3-4 times. It was definitely less painful; the precision of the surgery made all the difference. I was able to recover quickly, and within weeks.” said Trujillo. “I would highly recommend this surgical procedure to anyone that meets the criteria.” she added. 

Alongside Trujillo were Baca, Nurse Practitioner Darla Bannister, CRNA Nina Thai, RN Circulator Lorissa Campos, Scrub Tech Louis Calderon and Company Representative Stephen Hatch.

 Since adopting the Mako system, AGH has performed many Mako-assisted procedures, enhancing the lives of patients throughout the community. The facility has invested in training surgeons and staff in the use of the technology to ensure patients receive the most accurate and effective care possible. The Mako robot’s 3D modeling capabilities allow for highly personalized surgical plans, making the technology a game-changer for complex joint replacement surgeries. The technology’s precision minimizes trauma to surrounding tissues, reducing post-operative pain and swelling, and ultimately leading to quicker recovery times.

The Mako robotic-arm assisted surgery system is designed to provide surgeons with enhanced precision and control during joint replacement procedures. By creating a 3D virtual model of the patient’s anatomy, the Mako system allows surgeons to plan each operation in detail before even stepping into the operating room. During surgery, the robot assists the surgeon in executing the plan with pinpoint accuracy, ensuring the proper alignment and placement of implants. This advanced technology is particularly useful for patients undergoing knee and hip replacements, where even small improvements in accuracy can lead to better outcomes.

As AGH celebrates 10 years with the Mako system, the hospital remains committed to offering cutting-edge, patient-centered care. The success of the Mako robotic system has led to fewer complications, longer-lasting joint replacements, and, most importantly, happier, healthier patients. “This technology has really set a new standard for joint replacement surgeries,” said Wan. “It’s exciting to see how far we’ve come in the last 10 years, and I’m confident that we’ll continue to advance the level of care we provide with this tool.”

With a decade of experience using the Mako robot, AGH continues to lead the way in innovative orthopedic care. The technology has not only changed the way joint replacement surgeries are performed but also transformed the lives of patients who can now walk, run, and enjoy life without pain. As the hospital looks to the future, it remains dedicated to enhancing patient outcomes using cutting-edge technology and compassionate care.

For more information about Mako robotic-arm assisted surgeries or to schedule a consultation, visit AGH’s Bone and Joint Destination Center at https://artesiageneral.com/bone-joint-center or call (575) 736-8106 for more information.