Knee Surgery

MAKO Robotic Joint Replacement

MAKO robotic-arm assisted hip and knee replacement surgery represents state-of-the-art orthopedics. By creating a 3D virtual model of your unique anatomy from CT scans, Dr. Sobh achieves millimeter-level accuracy during implant placement for optimal joint balance and longevity.

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On This Page

Recovery

Reduced soft tissue trauma, enhanced joint feeling, rapid rehabilitation timeline.

Clinical Focus

CT-guided 3D mapping, intra-operative tissue balancing, sub-millimeter positioning precision.

Ideal Candidate

Individuals seeking maximum implant precision, bone preservation, and natural-feeling joint motion.

Understanding Your Procedure

In-Depth: MAKO Robotic Joint Replacement

A clear, comprehensive look at what this procedure is, how it works, and why it may be the right choice for you.

assisted surgery is not a different type of joint replacement—it is a dramatically more precise way of performing hip and knee replacement. The implants used are the same high-quality components used in traditional surgery; what changes is how they are placed. The MAKO system combines CT-based 3D modeling with a robotic arm that keeps the surgeon within pre-defined haptic boundaries, eliminating the variability of manual bone cuts.Before surgery, a of your joint is used to create a personalized 3D virtual model of your unique anatomy. Dr. Sobh uses this model to plan size, position, and alignment down to the millimeter—something that cannot be done with conventional mechanical guides. This pre-operative plan is loaded into the MAKO system.During surgery, the robotic arm tracks your leg's position in real time. Dr. Sobh guides the burr and saw within the pre-planned boundaries—the robot provides that prevents cutting outside the planned zone. This means only the damaged bone is removed, healthy bone and ligaments are preserved, and the is placed in exactly the optimal position for your anatomy.

MAKO Robotic Joint Replacement anatomical illustration

MAKO Robotic Joint Replacement — illustrated overview of the surgical approach and implant placement.

20-30+

Years Implant Lifespan

90%+

Patient Satisfaction

24h

Walking Post-Op

<1%

Complication Rate

What Makes This Approach Different

CT-Based 3D Planning

Your surgery is planned on a 3D model of your actual joint, not estimated from 2D X-rays. Every cut, angle, and size is determined before you enter the operating room.

Haptic Boundary Control

The robotic arm prevents the cutting instruments from moving outside the pre-planned zone. This eliminates the risk of over-resection and protects surrounding ligaments and tendons.

Real-Time Kinematic Assessment

During surgery, Dr. Sobh can assess how your ligaments balance through the full and fine-tune position before final fixation—something impossible with conventional techniques.

Bone-Sparing Precision

Studies show MAKO removes up to 30% less bone than conventional techniques, preserving bone stock that may be valuable if future revision is ever needed.

Clinical information reviewed and edited by Dr. Ali H. Sobh, MD, board-certified orthopedic surgeon. Content synthesized from peer-reviewed orthopedic literature, American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) guidelines, and Dr. Sobh's fellowship training at Rush University Medical Center. Last updated 2025.

Watch & Learn

Understanding MAKO Robotic Joint Replacement

These medically accurate videos show exactly how MAKO robotic-arm assisted surgery works — from the preoperative CT scan and 3D surgical planning to the precise robotic-guided bone preparation and implant placement.

Narrated Surgery9:00 min

MAKO Robotic-Arm Knee Replacement — Live Surgery

Dr. Robert Thomas of Panorama Orthopedics performs and narrates a complete MAKO robotic knee replacement, explaining each step: the preoperative CT scan, 3D model creation, robotic arm bone preparation, implant positioning, and soft tissue balancing. Over 6.4 million views.

Source: Panorama Orthopedics & Spine Center — 6.4M views

Surgeon Walkthrough7:25 min

Inside the OR: MAKO Robotic-Assisted Surgery

Dr. Peter Gold takes you into the operating room for a MAKO robotic-assisted knee replacement, explaining the advantages of preoperative 3D planning, how the robotic arm guides precise bone cuts, and why the technology allows for smaller incisions and less soft tissue damage.

Source: Dr. Peter Gold — Panorama Orthopedics, Ortho Colorado Hospital

Dr. Sobh's MAKO Robotic Expertise

Dr. Sobh is trained and experienced in MAKO robotic-arm assisted joint replacement for both hip and knee procedures. The MAKO system's CT-based 3D planning and haptic robotic guidance allow him to customize each surgery to your unique anatomy — achieving precise implant positioning that may lead to less pain, shorter recovery, and longer-lasting results compared to conventional techniques.

Videos embedded from YouTube for patient educational purposes. Dr. Dr. Ali H. Sobh, MD reviews all educational content on this page. Sources: Panorama Orthopedics & Spine Center (Dr. Robert Thomas) and Dr. Peter Gold (Ortho Colorado Hospital). MAKO is a registered trademark of Stryker Corporation.

Interactive Education

See How Your Joint Works

Understanding your condition is the first step toward confident decisions. Use this interactive visualizer to explore the anatomy of the knee joint, compare a healthy joint with an arthritic one, and see exactly what mako robotic joint replacement restores.

1
Toggle states to compare healthy, arthritic, and post-surgical joints.
2
Tap the dots to learn about each anatomical structure.
3
Watch the motion to see how the joint moves during activity.

Interactive Joint Visualizer

Explore how mako robotic joint replacement works

For Education

Front View

100%

Tap the dots to explore the joint anatomy

Arthritic / Damaged

Illustration for educational purposes. Not a diagnostic image.

Recognizing the Signs

Common Symptoms

Many patients live with joint pain for years before seeking treatment. If you recognize several of these symptoms, it may be time to schedule a consultation.

When to seek care

If your symptoms interfere with sleep, work, or activities you enjoy, or if conservative treatments no longer provide relief, a surgical consultation is appropriate.

Persistent knee pain that worsens with walking, stairs, or standing

Knee stiffness, especially in the morning or after sitting

Swelling or a feeling of the knee 'giving way' or being unstable

Grinding, clicking, or popping sensations in the knee

Decreased range of motion—inability to fully straighten or bend the knee

Pain that persists despite medications, injections, or bracing

Visible bowing or knock-knee deformity that has developed over time

Dr. Ali H. Sobh, MD

Board Certified & Fellowship-Trained Orthopedic Surgeon

Rush University Medical Center Fellowship

Hour Detroit Top Doc Award 2025

900+ 5-Star Google Reviews

Why Dr. Sobh for This Procedure

Fellowship-Trained Expertise in MAKO Robotic Joint Replacement

Dr. Sobh's fellowship at Rush University included specialized training in assisted surgery. He creates a personalized 3D surgical plan from your , then uses the robotic arm to place implants with sub-millimeter accuracy—preserving healthy bone and ligaments that conventional techniques may damage. This precision results in a more natural-feeling joint, improved ligament balance, and longer life. Dr. Sobh was among the early adopters of MAKO technology in the Detroit metro region.

Meet Dr. Sobh Patient Testimonials

Conditions Treated

Is MAKO Robotic Joint Replacement Right for You?

Dr. Sobh may recommend this procedure for patients diagnosed with the following conditions.

Severe knee osteoarthritisAvascular necrosis of the kneeRheumatoid arthritis of the kneePost-traumatic knee arthritisEarly-stage compartmental arthritis

A thorough consultation and imaging review will confirm the best treatment path for your specific situation.

Are You a Candidate?

Candidacy for MAKO Robotic Joint Replacement

Dr. Sobh carefully evaluates each patient to determine if this procedure is the right fit. Here's a general guide — your individual consultation will provide a definitive answer.

Good Candidate

Patients with knee osteoarthritis who want the highest level of implant precision and are willing to undergo a pre-operative CT scan.

Good Candidate

Patients with complex anatomy, prior trauma, or concerns about implant longevity who benefit most from customized 3D planning.

May Not Be a Candidate

Patients who cannot undergo a CT scan (rare). The robotic system is used for both partial and total knee replacement, so most knee replacement candidates are eligible.

May Not Be a Candidate

Patients with severe knee stiffness or ankylosis may require a conventional approach, as the robotic arm requires a minimum range of motion for kinematic assessment.

Technology & Techniques

Advanced Technology Used in Your Surgery

Dr. Sobh uses these specialized tools and technologies to ensure the highest level of precision and safety during your procedure.

MAKO Stryker System

An FDA-cleared robotic-arm platform that combines pre-operative CT planning with intra-operative haptic guidance for sub-millimeter implant accuracy.

3D CT Virtual Model

A personalized 3D reconstruction of your joint is created from a CT scan, allowing Dr. Sobh to plan implant size and position specific to your anatomy.

Haptic Feedback Arm

The robotic arm provides tactile resistance that prevents the surgeon from cutting outside the pre-planned boundaries, protecting healthy bone and soft tissue.

Triathlon Implants

Stryker Triathlon implants are paired with the MAKO system, offering excellent range of motion and long-term durability validated by registry data.

How the Surgery Works

Understanding Your Surgical Journey

From your first consultation to full recovery, here's what to expect at each stage. Dr. Sobh and the team at Michigan Orthopaedic Surgeons will guide you through every step.

Robotic-Assisted Surgery

During surgery, the MAKO robotic arm guides Dr. Sobh within the pre-planned boundaries. The system provides real-time feedback, ensuring implants are placed with sub-millimeter accuracy while preserving healthy bone and ligaments.

Soft Tissue Balancing

The robotic system allows Dr. Sobh to assess and fine-tune ligament balance throughout the procedure, resulting in a natural-feeling, stable joint.

Accelerated Recovery

Because the procedure is precise and bone-sparing, patients experience less soft tissue trauma, reduced pain, and a faster rehabilitation timeline compared to conventional techniques.

Recovery Timeline

Your Path Back to Activity

Recovery timelines vary by individual and procedure complexity. Dr. Sobh will provide a personalized rehabilitation plan. Here's a general guide to what most patients experience.

0-24 hours

Day of Surgery

Begin walking with assistance. Robotic precision means less tissue trauma, so early mobility is typically comfortable.

1-2 weeks

Early Recovery

Progress with physical therapy. Manage pain with Dr. Sobh's advanced multimodal protocol. Most patients go home within 24-48 hours.

2-6 weeks

Strengthening Phase

Increase walking distance. Resume driving and office work. Therapy focuses on range of motion and quadriceps strengthening.

6-12 weeks

Full Activity

Return to low-impact sports and recreational activities. The precisely placed implant provides a natural, stable joint feeling.

Comparing Your Options

MAKO Robotic Joint Replacement vs. Alternatives

Understanding how mako robotic joint replacement compares to other treatment options helps you make an informed decision. Dr. Sobh will discuss all viable options during your consultation.

Conventional (Manual) Knee Replacement

Conventional surgery uses mechanical guides and jigs to estimate bone cuts. Studies show 7-15% of conventional knee replacements are outliers for alignment, which can affect longevity. MAKO virtually eliminates these outliers.

Patient-Specific Instrumentation (PSI)

PSI uses MRI to create custom cutting guides, but the actual cutting is still done manually without real-time feedback. MAKO provides both pre-operative planning AND intra-operative robotic guidance.

NAVIO Robotic System

NAVIO is a competing robotic platform that does not require a (uses intra-operative mapping instead). Dr. Sobh uses MAKO because the pre-operative CT plan provides more comprehensive 3D anatomical data and has longer clinical follow-up data.

Patient Journey Tip

You'll need a CT scan of your knee before surgery—this is what creates your personalized 3D plan. The scan is typically done 2-4 weeks before your surgical date and is covered by insurance as part of the procedure planning.

Benefits

This procedure offers significant advantages for qualified patients:

Personalized 3D surgical plan from your CT scan
Sub-millimeter implant accuracy
Preserves healthy bone and tissue
Improved joint balance and stability
Lower risk of implant wear and loosening
Faster recovery with less pain
More natural-feeling joint

Potential Risks

As with any surgery, there are potential risks. Dr. Sobh takes extensive measures to minimize them:

Infection (rare)
Blood clots—prevented with medication and early walking
Implant loosening over decades
Stiffness or arthrofibrosis
Nerve or blood vessel injury (very rare)
Anesthesia-related risks

Important

This information is for educational purposes only. Your individual risks depend on your health history. Dr. Sobh will discuss your specific risk profile during your consultation.

Patient Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions patients ask about mako robotic joint replacement.

Is the MAKO robot performing the surgery?

No. Dr. Sobh performs the surgery. The MAKO robotic arm is a precision tool that guides Dr. Sobh within the pre-planned boundaries, ensuring the implants are placed exactly as planned. The robot cannot move on its own.

Why is robotic accuracy important?

Studies show that precise placement leads to better joint balance, improved function, longer life, and a more natural feeling knee. The MAKO system helps achieve this precision consistently.

Do I need a CT scan?

Yes. A is required to create your personalized 3D surgical plan. This is what makes the robotic guidance accurate to your unique anatomy.

Is MAKO robotic knee replacement covered by insurance?

Yes. MAKO robotic-assisted knee replacement is FDA-cleared and covered by Medicare and most major insurance plans. Our team will verify your benefits.

Medically ReviewedLast reviewed: August 14, 2026

Dr. Ali H. Sobh, MD

Board Certified & Fellowship-Trained Orthopedic Surgeon — Minimally-Invasive Hip & Knee Replacement Specialist

This procedure page was clinically reviewed and approved by Dr. Ali H. Sobh, MD, a board-certified, fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon specializing in direct anterior hip replacement and MAKO robotic knee surgery. Dr. Sobh graduated with high honors from Wayne State University School of Medicine and completed his adult reconstruction fellowship at Rush University Medical Center in Chicago. He practices at Michigan Orthopaedic Surgeons (MOS) with offices in Royal Oak and Southfield, Michigan.

View Full Credentials Editorial Standards

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Individual results and recovery timelines vary. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Sobh to discuss your specific condition and treatment options.

Happy, active patients enjoying life after orthopedic surgery recovery with Dr. Ali H. Sobh

Back to an Active Life

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Schedule a personalized consultation with Dr. Sobh to discuss whether mako robotic joint replacement is right for you. Our team will help coordinate your visit, insurance verification, and pre-operative planning.

Book an Appointment Call (833) 667-3627