CommonSpirit Mercy Hospital in Durango, Colorado, is introducing advanced robotic technology for shoulder surgery. The hospital is among the first in the Four Corners Region to offer this robot-assisted procedure, with the first patient scheduled for July 29.
The technology, which is currently in a Limited Market Release in the United States, is intended to transform reverse shoulder surgery, specifically primary joint replacement. The system is designed to streamline workflows and assist surgeons in executing surgical plans with enhanced precision and control.
Dr. Matthew Smith, an orthopedic surgeon at Mercy Hospital, stated that the technology allows for the use of a three-dimensional model of a patient's shoulder. This creates a personalized plan that can be executed more precisely in the operating room, which he said leads to more accurate implant placement and improved patient symptoms.
The new system aims to optimize implant placement through an intuitive workflow and customized experience. Similar robot-assisted surgeries for hip and knee replacements have previously demonstrated outcomes such as shorter recovery times and less pain compared to manual surgery.
The addition of this robotic technology is part of Mercy Hospital's effort to address the increasing demand for shoulder replacement procedures. These surgeries are often sought by patients experiencing chronic or debilitating pain from conditions like arthritis and torn rotator cuffs.
Information regarding advanced orthopedics services and treatment options can be found through Mercy Hospital and CommonSpirit Mercy Orthopedics Associates.
