Hattiesburg Clinic Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine Introduces Mako Robotic-Assisted Total Joint Replacement at LAW

Hattiesburg Clinic Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine continues to advance patient care with the introduction of Mako SmartRobotics™ robotic-assisted total joint replacement surgery, at Hattiesburg Clinic Lowery A. Woodall Outpatient Surgery Center (LAW). This milestone represents a significant step forward in orthopaedic innovation, bringing robotic technology to patients at our outpatient surgery center.

As joint pain and degenerative conditions such as osteoarthritis continue to impact quality of life for millions of Americans, advancements in surgical technology are redefining what patients can expect from treatment. With the addition of Mako SmartRobotics at LAW, our orthopaedic surgeons can perform procedures with fewer complications, increased flexibility and control.

Joint replacement surgery has long been a highly effective solution for patients suffering from severe hip or knee pain. Advancements in surgical techniques have enhanced outcomes and shortened recovery times. In most cases, patients can go home the same day as surgery to begin recovery in the comfort of their home. It is a step toward a more active, pain-free life.

Mako robotic-assisted surgery allows orthopaedic surgeons to create a personalized surgical plan based on each patient’s unique anatomy. Using a CT scan, the system generates a detailed 3D model of the affected joint, enabling surgeons to map out implant size, alignment and positioning before ever entering the operating room.

“The combination of planning, real-time data and surgical experience helps create a highly individualized procedure with a higher degree of accuracy and consistency,” Matthew T. Valentine, MD, with Hattiesburg Clinic Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine said. “This is truly a personalized joint replacement procedure where I remain in complete control, but with more information and precision than ever before.”

This preoperative planning is one of the most transformative aspects of Mako technology. Surgeons are equipped with a comprehensive blueprint tailored specifically to the patient. This level of preparation helps optimize surgical precision and contributes to more predictable outcomes.

Mako robotic-assisted surgery is not an automated process. Instead, it is a surgeon-controlled procedure enhanced by robotic guidance. The system provides real-time feedback and operates within predefined boundaries based on the patient’s personalized surgical plan.

One of the defining advantages of Mako robotic-assisted joint replacement is its ability to personalize each procedure. No two joints are exactly alike, and factors such as bone structure, alignment and the extent of joint damage can vary widely between patients.

“Every patient’s anatomy, alignment and ligament balance is different,” Dr. Valentine said. “Mako allows me to collect objective data about how the patient’s joint functions before making surgical decisions.”

By utilizing CT-based 3D modeling, Mako enables surgeons to tailor every aspect of the surgery, from implant positioning to joint balancing, based on the individual patient’s anatomy. This level of customization helps ensure the artificial joint functions more naturally, potentially improving long-term comfort and mobility.

The integration of robotic-assisted technology into joint replacement surgery offers a range of potential benefits for patients. While individual experiences may vary, many patients can expect improved surgical outcomes and recovery experiences. These benefits are particularly important for patients seeking to maintain an active lifestyle or return to work and recreational activities as quickly as possible.

“Studies show reduced alignment outliers such as better coronal alignment of the femoral and tibial component and fewer deviations from planned positions,” Jeremy A. Wise, MD, with Hattiesburg Clinic Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine said. “Robotic systems consistently show tighter variance in coronal alignment, sagittal alignment and rotational positioning.”

The introduction of Mako robotic-assisted surgery at LAW highlights the growing trend toward performing joint replacement procedures in outpatient settings. Advances in surgical techniques, anesthesia and postoperative care have made it possible for many patients to undergo joint replacement without the need for an extended hospital stay. Outpatient surgery offers several advantages, including a reduced risk of hospital-acquired infections and the comfort of recovering at home sooner.

“As a surgeon, using Mako has allowed more consistent execution of personalized plans with enhanced precision and confidence in component positioning and soft tissue preservation,” Dr. Wise said. “This can translate to improved balance and joint kinematics resulting in a more natural feeling knee and increased range of motion after surgery.”

At Hattiesburg Clinic Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine, our surgeons are fellowship-trained in the use of robotic-assisted technology. Their experience and training allow them to deliver care tailored to each patient’s needs. This partnership between surgeon and technology ensures patients receive the benefits of innovation without compromising the human element of care.

The addition of Mako robotic-assisted total joint replacement at LAW marks an exciting new chapter in orthopaedic care for the region. It reflects a broader commitment to embracing innovation, improving patient outcomes, and expanding access to advanced treatment options.

For patients living with chronic joint pain, the decision to undergo joint replacement surgery is often life changing. Our team takes time to understand each patient’s goals, lifestyle and expectations to create a customized treatment and recovery plan. From your first consultation through rehabilitation, you will receive coordinated, compassionate care focused on restoring mobility, reducing pain and getting you back to doing what you love.

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About Hattiesburg Clinic Lowery A. Woodall Outpatient Surgery Center:

Lowery A. Woodall (LAW) Outpatient Surgery Center has been providing outpatient services to South Mississippi residents since 1984. Our mission is to provide high-quality, patient-centered health care in an efficient and cost-effective manner. Our goal is to be the health care provider of choice in the communities we serve.

About Hattiesburg Clinic Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine:

Hattiesburg Clinic Orthopaedics treats a spectrum of orthopaedic conditions and diseases including musculoskeletal injuries, fractures and complex total joint reconstructions. In addition, the clinic also provides surgical treatments for arthritis including joint replacement, surgery for traumatic injuries and general sports medicine.

Arthroscopic techniques are routinely utilized in the management of orthopaedic problems and close coordination with Hattiesburg Clinic Physical Therapy departments enhance outpatient treatment and early rehabilitation.

We offer comprehensive services, including primary care, sports medicine, orthopaedic surgery and physical therapy. Additionally, our facility includes a connected 14,310-square-foot indoor sports performance center and a variety of training systems.

About Hattiesburg Clinic:

Hattiesburg Clinic is Mississippi’s largest privately-owned, multispecialty clinic. Founded in 1963, Hattiesburg Clinic has expanded to include over 450 physicians and providers, along with 2,500 employees, serving patients across more than 17 counties in Mississippi. Hattiesburg Clinic is committed to being the health care provider of choice in the communities we serve.