Kaweah Health Launches Mako Robot for Orthopedic Surgeries

Kaweah Health orthopedic surgeon Dr. Jun Kim performed the organization’s first surgery on its new Stryker Mako SmartRobotics™ surgical robot on Wednesday, July 22, pairing the technology with the Jiffy Knee™ surgical method to give patients a faster, less painful recovery from knee replacement surgery.

The Mako system uses 3D CT-based planning to give Dr. Kim a more precise view of each patient’s anatomy. Combined with the Jiffy Knee technique, which avoids cutting through tendons and muscle, patients are seeing dramatically shorter recovery times.

“Before, I would have to cut the tendons and the quadricep muscle, which was more painful and took longer to heal,” Dr. Kim said. “With the Jiffy Knee method, I’m able to move those aside to have access to the area, which makes recovery much easier.”

Patients who undergo the Jiffy Knee method regain their range of motion quicker and perform a straight leg raise sooner than those who go the traditional route.  

“I’m excited that we’ve launched the Mako program at Kaweah Health,” Dr. Kim said. “My ability to do the Jiffy Knee with the Mako is better for my patients.” 

The Mako robot adds to Kaweah Health’s growing surgical robotics program, allowing for more less invasive surgeries across many specialties. Beyond knee surgeries, the Mako robot will also be able to assist with hip, shoulder, and spine surgeries, said Jag Batth, Kaweah Health chief operating officer. 

“We are investing in Mako technology because it helps us care for you and your family,” Batth said. “Every time we start something new, our focus is on what is best for our patients.”