We invest in the latest robotic technologies to deliver world-class healthcare experiences for every patient.

A leading orthopaedic knee specialist who operates at Allevia Hospitals, worked closely with DePuy Synthes on the development of the robotic-assisted solution, including using the technology for the first time in the world at Allevia Hospital Ascot in Remuera.

The VELYS is an exciting new development for a number of reasons.

• It is a first-of-its-kind table-mounted solution, with an efficient design that integrates into any operating room.
• The system adapts to the surgeon's workflow, is designed to give them the control they are used to, and helps them execute accurate bony cuts.²
• Every knee is different, and it allows the surgeon to individualise the total knee joint replacement to match the variable bony anatomy and soft tissue envelope of the patient's knee. This patient-specific technique enables the surgeon to tailor the alignment of the knee replacement to the patient's anatomy.
• It works exclusively with the ATTUNE Knee System, which studies have shown can improve clinical outcomes and patient-reported outcomes, as well as contribute to a shorter length of stay in hospital.^{2, 3, 4, 5}

• The surgical procedure using the ROSA Knee is similar to traditional total knee replacement, but with a robotic assistant that personalises the surgical approach for the patient's unique anatomy.
• During the procedure, ROSA Knee utilises a camera and optical trackers attached to the leg to know exactly where the knee is in space. If the leg moves even a fraction of an inch, the robot can tell and adjusts accordingly.
• Throughout the surgery, ROSA Knee provides the surgeon with data. This information, combined with the surgeon's skill, helps them know how to position the implant based on the patient's unique anatomy.
• Unlike traditional knee replacement methods, with ROSA Knee a series of x-rays may be used to create a three-dimensional (3D) model of the patient's knee anatomy. This 3D model enables the surgeon to plan the specifics of the knee replacement prior to the surgery taking place.

The Apollo system equips surgeons with advanced tools to design and deliver tailored surgical plans for each patient. Its fluoro-guided hip arthroplasty features include:

• Compact, multi-application station
• Instant 3D analysis from any standard 2D fluoroscopy image, enabling precise implant positioning
• Millimetre and degree-level precision
• Enhanced efficiency, reducing both operative time and intra-operative radiation exposure

Benefits of 3D Planning and Delivery with OPSInsight™:

• Optimised implant positioning through integrated OPSInsight™ technology
• Seamless compatibility with ApolloHipX™
• Combines advanced visualisation with data-driven precision, supporting confident decision-making at every surgical stage
• Improves accuracy and outcomes in total hip arthroplasty procedures

The first surgery using the new Mako system – a knee arthroplasty – was performed on is 17 October at Ascot Hospital, marking a significant milestone in Allevia Hospitals’ commitment to innovation and excellence in patient care. 

Enhancing precision, accelerating recovery 

The Mako® system empowers surgeons with enhanced planning tools and robotic precision, allowing for more accurate procedures¹ and reduced soft tissue damage compared to traditional manual techniques. ^2,3 This technology not only improves surgical outcomes but also contributes to faster recovery times. Patients undergoing Mako-assisted surgery typically reach postoperative goals sooner and are discharged home earlier than those treated with manual methods. ⁴ Long-term results are equally promising, with physical function scores remaining favourable even three years post-surgery. ⁵

A comprehensive robotic ecosystem 

The addition of Mako 4 and Mako 3.11 complements Allevia Hospitals’ existing suite of robotic technologies. This diverse and advanced robotic ecosystem positions Allevia Hospitals at the forefront of surgical innovation in New Zealand. 

Leadership in innovation 

“At Allevia Hospitals, we’re committed to continually expanding our portfolio of advanced surgical technologies,” says Dr Ian England, CEO. “Investing in robotics technology not only improves outcomes for our patients – it also helps us attract top surgical talent from across the country.” 

With this expansion, Allevia Hospitals reinforces its role as a leader in robotic-assisted surgery, delivering world-class care and pioneering the future of orthopaedics. 

References: 

1. Lewis PL, Gill DR, McAuliffe MJ, McDougall C, Stoney JD, Vertullo CJ, Wall CJ, Corfield S, Du P, Holder C, Harries D, Edwards S, Xu A, Lorimer MF, Cashman K, Smith PN. Hip, Knee and Shoulder Arthroplasty: 2024 Annual Report, Australian Orthopaedic Association National Joint Replacement Registry, AOA: Adelaide, South Australia. 2024.
2. Kayani B, Konan S, Pietrzak JRT, Haddad FS. Iatrogenic Bone and Soft Tissue Trauma in Robotic-Arm Assisted Total Knee Arthroplasty Compared With Conventional Jig-Based Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Prospective Cohort Study and Validation of a New Classification System. J Arthroplasty. 2018;33(8):2496-2501. doi:10.1016/j.arth.2018.03.042
3. Fontalis A, Kayani B, Asokan A, et al. Inflammatory Response in Robotic-Arm-Assisted Versus Conventional Jig-Based TKA and the Correlation with Early Functional Outcomes: Results of a Prospective Randomized Controlled Trial. J Bone Joint Surg Am. 2022;104(21):1905-1914. doi:10.2106/JBJS.22.00167
4. Kayani B, Konan S, Tahmassebi J, Pietrzak JRT, Haddad FS. Robotic-arm assisted total knee arthroplasty is associated with improved early functional recovery and reduced time to hospital discharge compared with conventional jig-based total knee arthroplasty: a prospective cohort study. Bone Joint J. 2018;100-B(7):930-937.doi:10.1302/0301-620X.100B7.BJJ-2017-1449.R1
5. Marchand RC, Scholl L, Taylor KB, et al. Clinical Outcomes after Computed Tomography-Based Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Minimum 3-Year Analyses [published online ahead of print, 2023 Jan 19]. J Knee Surg. 2023;10.1055/s-0042-1759790. doi:10.1055/s-0042-1759790

• The da Vinci system allows surgeons to skilfully perform surgical procedures through tiny incisions. 
• Guided by magnified, high-definition images, the surgeon controls small robotic arms that can bend and rotate in ways the human hand cannot, providing greater dexterity, control, precision and vision. 
• The system is so precise that the instruments recheck their position by computer 1,500 times per second.