Hip Surgery

Robotic-Assisted Hip Replacement (MAKO)

Robotic-assisted hip replacement using the MAKO system combines CT-based 3D planning with a robotic arm that guides Dr. Sobh during surgery with sub-millimeter accuracy. This precision ensures the implant is placed in exactly the optimal position for your unique anatomy, maximizing longevity and stability.

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On This Page

Recovery

Precise implant placement, reduced soft tissue trauma, optimized joint biomechanics, rapid rehabilitation.

Clinical Focus

CT-guided 3D planning, robotic-arm haptic guidance, sub-millimeter cup positioning, optimized leg length and offset.

Ideal Candidate

Patients seeking the highest level of implant precision and customized surgical planning for their hip replacement.

Understanding Your Procedure

In-Depth: Robotic-Assisted Hip Replacement (MAKO)

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

Robotic-assisted hip replacement is not a different type of hip replacement—it is a dramatically more precise way of performing hip replacement using the MAKO robotic system. 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 provides , keeping the surgeon within pre-defined boundaries.Before surgery, a of your hip is used to create a personalized 3D virtual model of your unique anatomy. Dr. Sobh uses this model to plan the exact cup size, position, angle, and leg length 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 instruments within the pre-planned boundaries—the robot provides that prevents movement outside the planned zone. This means the cup is placed in exactly the optimal position for your anatomy, with precise leg length and offset, maximizing stability and longevity.

Robotic-Assisted Hip Replacement (MAKO) anatomical illustration

Robotic-Assisted Hip Replacement (MAKO) — 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 hip joint, not estimated from 2D X-rays. Cup size, position, angle, and leg length are determined before you enter the operating room.

Haptic Boundary Control

The robotic arm prevents the cutting instruments from moving outside the pre-planned zone, eliminating the risk of over-resection and protecting surrounding bone and soft tissue.

Optimized Cup Positioning

Precise cup angle (inclination and anteversion) reduces the risk of and wear, maximizing longevity. Studies show MAKO reduces cup placement outliers by up to 4x compared to manual techniques.

Personalized Leg Length & Offset

The 3D plan accounts for your unique leg length and femoral offset, ensuring equal legs and optimized hip biomechanics.

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 Robotic-Assisted Hip Replacement

These medically accurate videos demonstrate how MAKO robotic-arm assisted hip replacement works — from CT-based 3D preoperative planning to the robotic-guided bone preparation and precise implant placement.

Narrated Surgery2:05 min

MAKO Robotic Hip Replacement — Demonstration

Dr. Benjamin Domb demonstrates a robotic hip replacement using MAKO technology: CT-based 3D model registration, femoral neck marking and cutting, acetabular registration, robotic-arm guided reaming for cup placement, and final component verification.

Source: Dr. Benjamin Domb, MD — 141K+ views

Full Procedure14:44 min

Complete MAKO Robotic Hip Replacement

Hip and knee surgeon Mr. Jon Conroy provides a detailed, real-time walkthrough of a complete MAKO robotic total hip replacement — from pelvic tracker placement and preoperative planning to robotic-guided component positioning.

Source: Jon Conroy Robotic Surgery — 167K+ views

Dr. Sobh's Robotic Hip Expertise

Dr. Sobh is trained and experienced in MAKO robotic-arm assisted hip replacement. The 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 and longer-lasting results.

Videos embedded from YouTube for patient educational purposes. Dr. Dr. Ali H. Sobh, MD reviews all educational content on this page. Sources: Dr. Benjamin Domb, MD and Jon Conroy Robotic Surgery. 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 hip joint, compare a healthy joint with an arthritic one, and see exactly what robotic-assisted hip replacement (mako) 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 robotic-assisted hip replacement (mako) 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 hip pain that limits daily activities

Hip stiffness and reduced range of motion

Pain in the groin, thigh, or buttocks

Limping or difficulty walking

Desire for the most precise implant placement available

Complex anatomy that benefits from customized 3D planning

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 Robotic-Assisted Hip Replacement (MAKO)

Dr. Sobh's fellowship at Rush University included specialized training in assisted hip surgery. He creates a personalized 3D surgical plan from your , then uses the robotic arm to place the acetabular cup with sub-millimeter accuracy—optimizing cup angle, depth, leg length, and offset specific to your anatomy. This precision results in improved joint stability, reduced wear, and a more natural-feeling hip. Dr. Sobh was among the early adopters of MAKO robotic hip technology in the Detroit metro region.

Meet Dr. Sobh Patient Testimonials

Conditions Treated

Is Robotic-Assisted Hip Replacement (MAKO) Right for You?

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

Severe hip osteoarthritisAvascular necrosis of the femoral headPost-traumatic hip arthritisRheumatoid arthritis of the hipDevelopmental hip dysplasiaComplex hip anatomy requiring customized planning

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

Are You a Candidate?

Candidacy for Robotic-Assisted Hip Replacement (MAKO)

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 hip 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, leg length discrepancy, 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). Most hip replacement candidates are eligible for robotic-assisted surgery.

May Not Be a Candidate

Patients with severe hip stiffness or ankylosis may require a conventional approach, as the robotic system 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 Robotic Arm 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 hip is created from a CT scan, allowing Dr. Sobh to plan cup size, position, angle, and leg length specific to your anatomy.

Haptic Feedback Arm

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

Real-Time Kinematic Assessment

During surgery, Dr. Sobh can assess hip stability and range of motion in real time, fine-tuning implant position before final fixation.

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.

CT Scan & 3D Planning

A creates a 3D model of your hip. Dr. Sobh plans the exact cup size, position, angle, and leg length specific to your anatomy.

Robotic-Assisted Surgery

During surgery, the MAKO robotic arm guides Dr. Sobh within the pre-planned boundaries. The system provides real-time feedback, ensuring the cup is placed with sub-millimeter accuracy.

Real-Time Assessment

Dr. Sobh assesses hip stability and in real time, fine-tuning position before final fixation—something impossible with conventional techniques.

Accelerated Recovery

Precise placement and minimal tissue trauma result in less pain, improved stability, and a faster rehabilitation timeline.

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 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 gait, strength, and balance.

6-12 weeks

Full Activity

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

Comparing Your Options

Robotic-Assisted Hip Replacement (MAKO) vs. Alternatives

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

Conventional (Manual) Hip Replacement

Conventional surgery uses mechanical guides and 2D X-rays to estimate cup position. Studies show 7-15% of conventional hip replacements are outliers for cup positioning, which can affect stability and longevity. MAKO virtually eliminates these outliers.

Computer-Navigated Hip Replacement

Computer navigation provides real-time feedback on position but does not use a robotic arm to enforce boundaries. MAKO provides both pre-operative planning AND intra-operative robotic guidance with .

Direct Anterior Hip Replacement

The refers to the surgical entry point (front of the hip). Robotic assistance can be combined with any approach, including anterior, for the ultimate in precision with minimal tissue trauma.

Patient Journey Tip

You'll need a CT scan of your hip 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 cup positioning accuracy
Optimized leg length and hip offset
Lower risk of dislocation and implant wear
Improved joint stability and biomechanics
Faster recovery with less pain

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
Leg length discrepancy (minimized by robotic precision)
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 robotic-assisted hip replacement (mako).

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 cup is placed exactly as planned. The robot cannot move on its own.

Why is robotic accuracy important for hip replacement?

Precise cup positioning affects stability, wear rate, risk, and longevity. Studies show MAKO reduces cup placement outliers by up to 4x compared to manual techniques, leading to better long-term outcomes.

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. The scan is done 2-4 weeks before surgery.

Is robotic hip replacement covered by insurance?

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

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 robotic-assisted hip replacement (mako) is right for you. Our team will help coordinate your visit, insurance verification, and pre-operative planning.

Book an Appointment Call (833) 667-3627