Mackay Base Hospital is the first regional Queensland hospital to benefit from the latest in knee replacement technology, enhancing the recovery and long-term outcomes for patients.
The NAVIO Surgical System is a handheld robotic-assisted surgical device designed to guide orthopaedic surgeons during knee replacements and is currently only in use at three Queensland metropolitan hospitals.
Mackay HHS orthopaedic surgeon Dr George Banic said the NAVIO Surgical System is a welcome addition to the Base Hospital’s surgical services.
“We are excited to have this new technology available for patients,” Dr Banic said.
“Traditional methods to knee surgery can be challenging in some circumstances. This system is designed to help surgeons remove the diseased bone and cartilage with greater accuracy and precisely insert a new implant.”
Based on the patient’s anatomy, surgeon’s use patient-specific 3D modelling to map out where the bone cuts will be made, and the robot ensures the cutting tool does not stray from that plan.
“Accuracy and precision of robotic-assisted knee surgery provides more consistent results and lowers the risk of complications. This means patients experience less pain and recover faster after their surgery,” Dr Banic said.
“This advanced technology is also a great teaching tool in training our next generation of doctors and health professionals.”
Retired maintenance electrician Bruce Archer began feeling uncomfortable in his right knee and was later diagnosed with osteoarthritis, a condition that can affect the whole knee joint including bone, cartilage, ligaments and muscles.
“It was becoming more and more difficult for me to bend my knee whenever I walked downstairs,” Bruce said.
“The prognosis I received was that I would have to undergo a total knee replacement.”
Bruce’s procedure was completed on 19 June, two day before his 65th birthday, using the NAVIO Surgical System.
He has since experienced a successful recovery following a three-night stay in the Base Hospital’s orthopaedic ward.
“Post-surgery, I only had to use crutches for a week and went back to playing bowls after just four weeks. I’m just happy to get back to the things I enjoyed and not be restricted by uncomfortable pain.”
Surgical staff have undergone comprehensive training facilitated by renowned orthopaedic surgeon Dr Rob Wallace who guided staff on how to use the device and assisted in procedures at Mackay Base Hospital.
