TriStar StoneCrest Medical Center is the first hospital in Rutherford County to offer robotic-arm assisted total knee, partial knee and total hip replacements with the use of Stryker's Mako System, according to a press release.

Through a CT scan of the diseased joint, the system creates a 3D modeling of the patient's bone anatomy. This allows surgeons to create a personalized surgical plan based on each patient's unique anatomy.

By selectively targeting only the part of the bone damaged by degeneration, surgeons can resurface the diseased portion, while avoiding the healthy bone and ligaments surrounding the joint.

The surgical procedure is then performed by an orthopaedic surgeon who guides a robotic-arm during the surgery to more accurately position the implant inside the patient's joint. 

Orthopaedic surgeons, Robert C. Greenberg, M.D., Timothy J Steinagle, D.O. and William C. Mayfield III, M.D. were the first surgeons at TriStar StoneCrest to receive specialized training to operate the new robotic arm.

"With this technology, we are now able to offer our patients a more predictable surgical experience," said Dr. Robert Greenberg, orthopaedic surgeon at TriStar StoneCrest Medical Center. "Using the virtual 3D modeling software, I am able to fully design each patient's surgical plan pre-operatively before entering the operating room. Once I'm in the OR, I then execute that plan by navigating the robotic-arm over the patient's joint using the pre-defined surgical plan. It's exciting to be able to offer this transformative technology for my total knee, total hip and partial knee replacement patients." 

The Center for Joint Replacement at TriStar StoneCrest opened in 2016 and features a dedicated team of expert surgeons and specially trained nurses, therapists and technicians working together to help joint replacement patients get back to a life free from joint pain.

"We are proud to offer this new robotic surgical system for the benefit of joint replacement patients here in our community," said Lou Caputo, TriStar StoneCrest Medical Center Chief Executive Officer. "The addition of this innovative new technology to our surgical services program further demonstrates our commitment to offer our physicians the most advanced, state-of-the-art technology to help ensure the highest quality of care and the best possible outcome for their patients." 

For more information about TriStar StoneCrest or a free physician referral, please call TriStar MedLine at 615.342.1919 or visit TriStarStoneCrest.com.