Mako Robotic Knee Replacement: 10 Questions Patients Ask
Medically reviewed by Dr. Mohsin Merchant, Orthopaedic Surgeon | Pain Cure Ortho & Rehab Clinic, Mazgaon, Mumbai |
If you have been told you may need a knee replacement, you probably have many questions. Robotic knee replacement is now available in Mumbai, and patients often ask how it works and whether it is right for them. Here are clear answers to the 10 questions we hear most often.
Dr. Mohsin Merchant, Orthopaedic Surgeon at Pain Cure Ortho & Rehab Clinic, performs robotic knee and hip replacement using the Mako robotic system at Wockhardt Hospital, Mumbai Central. Rehab after surgery is done at our clinic on Love Lane, Mazgaon.
1. What is robotic knee replacement?
Robotic knee replacement is a knee replacement in which the surgeon uses a robotic arm to help plan and carry out the surgery with high precision. The worn-out surfaces of the knee are replaced with an artificial joint (implant), just like in conventional knee replacement. The difference is in how precisely the bone cuts and implant position are planned and carried out.
2. Does the robot perform the surgery?
No. The surgeon performs the surgery. The robotic arm is a tool that the surgeon controls. It helps the surgeon follow the surgical plan and keep bone cuts within the planned boundaries.
3. How does the Mako system work?
Before surgery, a CT scan of your knee is used to create a 3D model of your joint. Using this model, the surgeon plans the size, position and alignment of the implant for your anatomy. During surgery, the Mako robotic arm guides the surgeon to follow this plan. The surgeon can check and fine-tune the plan during the operation.
4. What are the possible benefits?
- Personalised planning based on a 3D model of your own knee
- Precise bone cuts within planned limits
- Accurate implant positioning and alignment, which matters for how the knee feels and works
- Protection of healthy bone and soft tissue around the knee
Every patient is different. Your surgeon will explain what you can realistically expect in your case.
5. Who needs a knee replacement?
Knee replacement is usually considered when:
- Knee arthritis is advanced on X-ray
- Pain limits walking, climbing stairs, sleep or daily work
- Pain continues despite medicines, physiotherapy and other treatment
- The knee is becoming deformed, for example bowed legs
Many people with knee pain improve without surgery. Read about non-surgical options on our Knee Treatment and Knee Arthritis pages.
6. Is robotic partial knee replacement possible?
Yes. When arthritis affects only one part of the knee, a partial (unicondylar) knee replacement may be suitable. With robotic assistance, only the damaged part is replaced, and the healthy parts of the knee are kept. Your surgeon will tell you whether you are a candidate after examining your knee and scans.
7. How long does the surgery and hospital stay take?
The operation and the length of the hospital stay depend on your health and whether one or both knees are treated. Your surgeon will explain the plan for you before surgery.
8. How soon can I walk after surgery?
Most patients start walking with support soon after surgery, under the guidance of the medical team. Over the following weeks, walking becomes steadier as strength returns. The exact timeline depends on your age, fitness and the type of surgery.
9. Why is rehab so important?
Surgery replaces the worn joint, but rehab decides how well you use your new knee. A structured programme helps you:
- Bend and straighten the knee fully
- Rebuild thigh muscle strength
- Walk, climb stairs and get up from a chair safely
- Return to daily life with confidence
After your surgery at Wockhardt Hospital, your rehab continues at our clinic in Mazgaon, under the same team. See Post-Operative Rehab.
10. How do I know if robotic knee replacement is right for me?
The first step is a consultation. Bring your X-rays, reports and a list of your medicines. Dr. Mohsin Merchant will examine your knee, review your reports and discuss all options with you, including non-surgical treatment, partial knee replacement and total knee replacement.
Quick summary
| Question | Short answer |
|---|---|
| Does the robot operate? | No, the surgeon operates and controls the robotic arm |
| Which system is used? | Mako robotic system |
| Where is surgery done? | Wockhardt Hospital, Mumbai Central |
| Where is rehab done? | Pain Cure Ortho & Rehab Clinic, Mazgaon |
| Is it suitable for everyone? | Decided after a consultation and scans |
Book a knee replacement consultation
Learn more on our Robotic Knee & Hip Replacement page, or book a visit with Dr. Mohsin Merchant.
Medical disclaimer: This article is for general information only and does not replace a consultation with a qualified doctor. Please consult a doctor for advice about your condition.