Justin Givens, MD, an orthopedic surgeon with Louisville, Ky.-based Norton Orthopedic Institute is the first in the state to use Mako SmartRobotics for a reverse shoulder replacement, according to a March 28 news release.
The robot provides a 3D image of a patient’s shoulder anatomy, and the surgeon can study simulations before surgery. The robotic arm also helps surgeons shave down the patient’s shoulder socket during surgery.
“I still do the approach, meaning I make the incision and move the soft tissue, nerves and veins out of the way,” Dr. Givens said in the release. “But now, the technology helps me to know the movements I’m making are exactly the ones I want to make. This gives us precision to ensure every cut and movement is exactly what the individual patient needs.”