MAKO Robotic Knee Replacement in Birmingham
Stryker MAKO SmartRobotics knee replacement by Mr Shakir Hussain, one of the UK's few surgeons certified in all three robotic platforms. CT-based 3D planning with haptic arm guidance for exceptional implant accuracy.
Triple-certified robotic surgeon
Total procedures
Verified patient reviews
What Is MAKO Robotic Knee Replacement?
MAKO robotic knee replacement uses the Stryker MAKO SmartRobotics system to assist Mr Hussain in positioning your knee implant with exceptional accuracy. It is the most extensively researched robotic knee platform in orthopaedic surgery, with a strong evidence base supporting its benefits in both total and partial knee replacement.
The MAKO system works in two stages. Before your operation, a CT scan of your knee is used to build a detailed 3D model of your specific anatomy. Mr Hussain uses this model to plan the exact size, position, and alignment of your implant before you enter the operating theatre.
During surgery, a robotic arm assists Mr Hussain in preparing the bone surfaces. The arm operates within haptic (physical resistance) boundaries that prevent any cutting outside the pre-planned zone. This means the plan made before surgery is executed with a precision that is difficult to match by hand alone.
The surgeon remains in complete control at all times. The robot does not make decisions or move independently. MAKO is a tool that extends Mr Hussain's precision, not a replacement for his expertise and judgement.
MAKO at a glance
Manufacturer: Stryker Corporation
Planning: CT-based 3D pre-operative model
Technology: Haptic robotic arm with boundary enforcement
Suitable for: Total and partial (unicompartmental) knee replacement
Evidence: The most published robotic knee system in peer-reviewed literature
Mr Hussain's certification: Fully certified in MAKO knee and hip applications
What Are the Benefits of MAKO Knee Replacement?
Robotic assistance does not guarantee a better outcome for every patient, but the evidence for MAKO specifically is among the strongest in robotic knee surgery.
More accurate implant placement
Clinical studies show MAKO consistently delivers implant positioning within tighter tolerances than manual techniques, reducing the risk of malalignment that can cause early pain, stiffness, or implant wear.
Preserved healthy tissue
Haptic boundaries prevent the robotic arm from cutting healthy bone or soft tissue outside the planned zone. This reduces blood loss and tissue disruption, supporting a smoother recovery.
Patient-specific planning
Your 3D model is built from your own CT scan, not population averages. Mr Hussain adjusts the plan based on your specific anatomy, alignment, and implant preferences before a single cut is made.
Potentially longer implant life
Better alignment and balanced soft tissue loading may reduce implant wear over time. Good long-term implant survival matters most to younger, more active patients.
Suitable for partial knee too
MAKO is one of the few robotic systems certified for both total and partial (unicompartmental) knee replacement. If you are a candidate for a partial knee, Mr Hussain can use MAKO to achieve the same level of precision.
Strong published evidence
MAKO has been studied in multiple randomised controlled trials and large registry studies. The evidence base is more extensive than for any other robotic knee platform currently available.
Am I Suitable for MAKO Knee Replacement?
MAKO robotic knee replacement is not suitable for every patient, and not every patient needs it. Mr Hussain will assess your suitability at consultation based on your anatomy, the extent of your arthritis, your age, activity level, and your overall health.
MAKO is most likely to be recommended in the following situations:
- Patients where precise implant alignment is particularly important, such as those with unusual anatomy or knee deformity
- Younger or more active patients for whom long-term implant survival is a priority
- Patients undergoing partial knee replacement where bone preservation is critical
- Cases where pre-operative planning with a 3D model is likely to improve the surgical outcome
If robotic surgery is not indicated for your case, Mr Hussain will explain why and recommend the most appropriate approach for you. Conventional knee replacement performed by an experienced surgeon remains an excellent procedure with high success rates.
What to expect
Before surgery: A CT scan of your knee is arranged. Mr Hussain uses this to build your 3D plan. You will also have standard pre-operative tests.
On the day: Surgery takes approximately 60 to 90 minutes. You will be under spinal or general anaesthesia. Most patients stand within hours of leaving theatre.
Recovery: MAKO patients follow the same enhanced recovery programme as conventional knee replacement. Most go home within 1 to 3 nights, or the same day if day-case surgery is agreed.
Why Choose Mr Hussain for MAKO Knee Replacement?
Mr Hussain holds full certification in MAKO knee replacement and has performed MAKO-assisted procedures across both total and partial knee replacement. He is also certified in ROSA (Zimmer Biomet) and CORI (Smith & Nephew), making him one of the very few surgeons in the UK with triple robotic certification for knee surgery.
His overall experience includes 5,000+ arthroplasty procedures. He holds the British Hip Society Travelling Fellowship, having trained under two of Europe's leading revision surgeons at ENDO-Klinik Hamburg. He has published 27 peer-reviewed papers and holds Doctify Outstanding Patient Experience Awards for 2024, 2025, and 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to Discuss Your Knee Replacement?
Take the first step towards a pain-free, active life. Book a consultation with Mr Hussain to discuss your options in confidence.