How Robotic Technology is Improving Health Care

Health care has continued to see innovations and breakthroughs across every service line, from infectious diseases to cancer treatments to behavioral health.

One way care has been revolutionized in recent years is through the implementation of robotics in the operating room, giving surgeons greater precision and helping improve the recovery process for many patients.

At EvergreenHealth Monroe and EvergreenHealth's Kirkland campus, the Stryker Mako Robotic-Arm Assisted Technology is used to perform minimally invasive joint replacement surgeries.

The Benefit of Robotic Technology

The expert surgeons with EvergreenHealth Monroe Orthopedic & Sports Care and EvergreenHealth Orthopedic & Sports Care in Kirkland receive extensive training on the Mako system so that they achieve the highest possible degree of accuracy when placing your new joint or aligning your muscles and soft tissue.

This means you'll have a better fit and longer-performing implant, less pain and faster recovery post-surgery and your natural range of motion will be restored.

"After robotic-assisted joint replacement surgery, my patients tell me their new joints feel more natural. They have less pain from the procedure, and they're usually able to recover faster," said EvergreenHealth Orthopedic Surgeon Joel Weber, MD. "Many of my patients go home the same day. They don't need to stay in the hospital, and those that stay in the hospital usually leave the next day."

Not only does robotic technology lead to greater success during surgery, but it also greatly reduces the chances for complications, infections and the need for additional procedures.

The Mako Robotic Arm by Stryker delivers the ultimate level of precision.

Advanced Technology and Your Surgeon

Using robotic technology, the most important feature is that your surgeon is in control the entire time. In this way, the robot is similar to the other tools your surgeon uses to perform a successful surgery.

For robotic arm-assisted joint surgery, your doctor first uses a CT scan of your joint to generate a 3D model of your joint and the area surrounding your joint.

This model is uploaded into the Mako system and gives your care team a comprehensive picture of your joint, helping them evaluate your bone structure, joint alignment and the severity of any diseased bone. This also gives them the ability to view the area surrounding the joint to ensure you get the best size, placement and alignment of your implant.

Throughout your surgery, the Mako system also provides real-time data to your surgeon so that they can continuously assess the movement and tension of your new joint and make the necessary adjustments.

During your procedure, the surgeon is always in control of the robotic arm. While the technology cannot replace the expert skillset of your orthopedic surgeon, it is a significant help in ensuring the ultimate level of precision.

Advanced Life-Saving Imaging Technology

The EvergreenHealth Monroe MRI Machine delivers a faster, quieter scan without compromising image quality.

However, advanced technology isn't just for the operating room. EvergreenHealth Monroe Imaging harnesses technology to screen and diagnose so that you can get the care you need as soon as possible.

The team utilizes state-of-the-art imaging machines that increase patient comfort and enhance the diagnostic capabilities of the EvergreenHealth Monroe team. These machines include a leading-edge ultrasound machine that provides high-resolution imaging as well as 3D mammography technology that offers detailed images that give your doctors the ability to detect abnormalities at an earlier stage and with optimal precision.

Plus, our MRI and technology is among the most advanced and unique in the region, offering you a faster, quieter and safer experience.

Through compressed sensing technology, your MRI scan time is reduced by half compared to traditional MRIs without compromising the image quality. This Is important for critical scans for serious conditions when every moment of care matters. Plus, a faster scan time means more comfort for you.