Global medical technology leader Stryker (NYSE: SYK) announced on July 16th the full commercial launch of its Mako RPS handheld robot system for total knee replacement across the United States.

Following an initial limited market release, the system is now available nationwide, signifying an expansion of the Mako brand from its traditional robotic-arm-assisted platform to a handheld robotic platform.

Innovative System Design

The Mako RPS system employs a handheld design that merges the precision execution and intraoperative planning capabilities of robotics with the familiar feel of a surgeon's standard powered instruments.

It is equipped with a robotic saw blade featuring Stryker's proprietary Active Control technology, which responds in real-time to the surgeon's hand movements to guide the blade within the planned alignment, offering a familiar bone-cutting experience without the need for traditional cutting guides.

Compatibility and Clinical Validation

The system is compatible with Stryker's clinically validated Triathlon Total Knee System and works in conjunction with the company's multispecialty Q Guidance system.

Keith Evans, Vice President and General Manager of Stryker's Mako and Enabling Technologies business unit, stated that customer feedback during the limited release was highly positive and that this nationwide launch sets a new standard for handheld robotic technology.

Enhancing the Surgical Experience

Lisa Kloes, Vice President and General Manager of Stryker's Knee business, noted that Mako RPS integrates robotic technology with the proven Triathlon knee system to deliver an intuitive surgical experience, building upon implants and workflows that surgeons already know and trust.

Targeting a Broader Surgeon Base

The Mako RPS is designed to appeal to surgeons who may have reservations about the traditional Mako robotic-arm system but desire an experience superior to manual tools, particularly attracting interest from ambulatory surgery centers.

Previously, Stryker CEO Kevin Lobo mentioned on a January earnings call that the product allows surgeons to adopt robotic technology without a significant change in their operational technique.

Expanding a Proven Legacy

Over the past two decades, Mako systems have been used to perform more than 2.5 million procedures across 47 countries.

The full launch of the Mako RPS further extends Stryker's product portfolio within the orthopedic robotics sector.