Magnolia (Ark.) Regional Medical Center's board of directors is meeting May 24 to discuss the possibility of purchasing a surgical robot, according to the Magnolia Reporter.
The robot in question is Stryker's Mako system, which is designed to assist surgeons with the accurate implantation of devices during knee and hip replacements and to protect soft tissue and ligaments from damage, according to the company. The system costs about $1 million.
Kevin Rudder, MD, was recently hired by the hospital after a yearlong search to develop "an orthopedic program that will excel in quality and positive outcomes," Rex Jones, CEO of the hospital, said.
The board also is expected to appoint another director and approve an amendment to the hospital's lease from the city of Magnolia, according to the report.