The primary distinction between the Mako and Velys robotic systems for knee surgery lies in their approach to preoperative imaging and real-time mapping of the patient's joint.
Core Difference: Imaging and Planning
The fundamental difference centers on whether a preoperative CT scan is required before the surgical procedure.
Mako System: Preoperative CT Scan Required
The Mako system necessitates a preoperative CT scan of the patient's knee. This scan is used to generate a detailed 3D anatomical model of the joint before the surgery even begins. Surgeons utilize this 3D model for meticulous preoperative planning, allowing them to customize the surgical approach and implant placement in advance.
Velys System: No Preoperative CT Scan Required
In contrast, the Velys system does not require a preoperative CT scan. Instead, it leverages intraoperative imaging and sensors to map the patient's knee in real-time during the surgery. This allows for immediate data acquisition and precise planning directly within the operating room, adapting to the patient's anatomy as the procedure progresses.
Key Distinctions at a Glance
| Feature | Mako System | Velys System |
|---|---|---|
| Preoperative Imaging | Requires a CT scan | No CT scan required |
| Mapping Method | Preoperative 3D model from CT scan | Intraoperative imaging and real-time sensors |
| Planning Phase | Primarily done before surgery | Dynamic, occurs during surgery |
Implications for Patients and Surgical Workflow
The differing imaging approaches lead to several practical implications:
- Patient Experience: For patients undergoing procedures with the Velys system, the elimination of a preoperative CT scan means one less appointment and reduced exposure to radiation.
- Surgical Workflow: Mako's reliance on a CT scan allows for comprehensive planning well in advance, which can streamline the surgical day. Velys's real-time mapping offers flexibility and immediate anatomical feedback during the operation.
- Precision and Customization: Both systems are designed to enhance precision and allow for highly customized implant placement, but they achieve this through distinct technological pathways regarding how they acquire and process anatomical data.
Both Mako and Velys represent advancements in robotic-assisted surgery, aiming to improve accuracy and outcomes in knee replacement procedures by offering surgeons enhanced precision and control. Their primary divergence lies in the initial data acquisition phase, impacting the preparation steps for the patient and the surgical team.
