When Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon Mr Aslam performed his first Mako robotic-assisted joint replacement, the technology was still unfamiliar to many patients. More than 1,000 procedures later, he says the biggest lesson is surprisingly simple: every hip and every knee is different.
Mr Aslam and the team at Spire South Bank Hospital in Worcester recently passed the 1,000 case milestone in robotic hip and knee surgery, making his private practice one of the UK’s highest-volume private Mako services.
So what has 1,000 operations taught him?
First, personalisation matters. Mako uses a CT scan to create a three-dimensional model of each patient’s joint, allowing surgery to be planned around that individual’s anatomy.
Second, the robot doesn’t replace the surgeon. “Patients sometimes imagine pressing a button and letting a robot perform the operation,” Mr Aslam said. “In reality, I remain in control throughout. The technology gives me information and precision; experience tells me how best to use it.”
Third, technology is only part of the equation. Successful joint replacement depends on the entire pathway – from surgical planning and anaesthesia to nursing, physiotherapy and recovery. Mr Aslam credits the experienced team at Spire South Bank with making the 1,000-case milestone possible.
Fourth, experience with the technology matters. Performing procedures regularly allows the surgical team to develop an increasingly refined and consistent approach.
And the fifth lesson?
“Never forget the person behind the operation,” Mr Aslam said. “A thousand cases sounds impressive, but to us it means 1,000 individual people who wanted to walk without pain, return to work, enjoy sport or simply get their independence back.”
Bradlee Tod Senior Business Unit Director for Stryker said “Mr Aslam has been at the forefront of Orthopaedic Innovation for many years, allowing him to understand how technology can improve patient care and outcomes. Achieving 1,000 Mako procedures requires passion, understanding and dedication, which he should absolutely be recognised for. I would personally like to thank Mr Aslam for his commitment to making healthcare better.”
Mr Aslam’s Private Practice is led by Katie Davies , who works closely with him and the wider team to coordinate the patient journey and support the continued development of the practice.
Katie Davies
Worcestershire Knee & Hip Clinic
Spire South Bank Hospital
139 Bath Road
Worcester
WR5 3YB
01905 362003
