LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- A surgeon with Louisville's Norton Orthopedic Institute recently performed groundbreaking robotic-assisted shoulder replacement at Norton Brownsboro Hospital.
Justin M. Givens, M.D., an orthopedic surgeon with Norton Orthopedic Institute, is among the first five surgeons in the country -- and the first in Kentucky -- to perform the robotic-arm assisted reverse shoulder replacement surgery with Mako SmartRobotics, according to a news release.
The robotics-assisted procedure hopes to offer a higher degree of precision and accuracy compared with traditional methods.
“It’s an honor to be among the first to use this technology,” Dr. Givens said in a written statement. “This new procedure allows me to give my patients a level of accuracy unlike any other. It’s a more personalized approach to each patient’s needs, which can lead to improved results and faster recovery times.”
The technology allows surgeons to use 3D images of each patient's shoulder, allowing them to study 3D simulations before surgery and view them on a screen during the procedure. The robotic arm then assists the surgeon shaving down the patient’s glenoid (shoulder socket), creating the new surface and inserting the implant, according to the release.
Dr. Givens said "the technology helps me to know the movements I’m making are exactly the ones I want to make. This gives us precision to ensure every cut and movement is exactly what the individual patient needs."
Reverse shoulder replacement is ideal for patients with severe arthritis, rotator cuff tears or other degenerative shoulder conditions that do not respond to conservative treatments. Dr. Givens said more than 90% of patients are satisfied with their replacements.
"My goal is to restore the shoulder to where it’s supposed to be and allow my patients to get back to their normal activities," Dr. Givens said. "I want my patients to go back to living their normal lives as soon as possible, and this new technology is another tool that will allow them to do so."
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