Southcoast Health Expands Robotic-Assisted Orthopedic Surgery to Tobey Hospital

Southcoast Health is proud to announce the recent investment of additional Mako robotic arm-assisted technology expanding the community health system’s access to advanced knee and hip replacement procedures across the region.

Since first implementing this technology at Charlton Memorial more than five years ago, the orthopedic surgery team has significantly increased the volume of joint replacement procedures, and they now perform more than 1,000 annually. With the addition of the second robot, patients will now be able to receive this specialized care at both Charlton Memorial and Tobey Hospitals.

“Our total joint team utilizes advanced robotic technology to redefine what’s possible in knee and hip replacements. By pairing our extensive surgical expertise with patient specific robotic mapping, the team ensures surgical precision tailored to each individual patient’s body. The result is superior joint stability and function, and a faster road to recovery,” said Dr. Christopher Skeehan, Medical Director of the Total Joint Program at Southcoast Health.

Mako robotic-arm assisted technology offers advanced treatment for individuals suffering from painful arthritis of the knee or hip. The benefits of robotic surgery have been shown to include the conservation of bone and healthy tissue, less scarring and faster recovery times, greater surgical precision and accuracy, and a reduced risk of infection.

“Since establishing our robotic surgery program in 2008, we have seen firsthand how this innovative technology is transforming patient care. We are proud to invest in the latest orthopedic surgery treatments and to continue advancing the high-quality care we provide to our patients across the health system,” said Dr. Dennis La Rock, Executive Vice President and Chief Physician Officer at Southcoast Health.

Southcoast Health Orthopedics offers a full spectrum of care with a comprehensive team approach. Patients can begin treatment with nonsurgical methods like physical therapy and anti-inflammatory medications in addition to surgical interventions.

To learn more about Southcoast Health Orthopedics please visit: orthopedics.southcoast.org/