Double Mako knee replacement success for Spire Manchester patient
24 March 2023
Sharron Ford, 52, from Manchester, had struggled with deteriorating arthritis in her knees for six years. Previously, Sharron enjoyed exercising and regularly walking her dogs, but her lifestyle completely changed as a result of her continuing pain. A life that could best be described as existing rather than living, Sharron relied on prescribed medication to help counter her symptoms. Simple tasks that most people would take for granted became arduous, and Sharron felt more and more physically restricted. Walking was a struggle, as was standing for long periods.
Unable to continue suffering any longer, Sharron consulted the help of Professor Sanjiv Jari, Consultant Knee, Lower Limb and Orthopaedic Sports Medicine Surgeon at Spire Manchester Hospital. Following a comprehensive consultation and conservative treatment, Professor Jari recommended that Sharron undergo Mako robotic-assisted knee replacement surgery to overhaul her mobility as well as her physical and mental health.
The use of the Mako robot in a total or partial joint replacement offers several advantages to patients compared to a “traditional” joint replacement, such as reduced pain levels, a faster recovery and 2-3 times the precision. Satisfied that this was her most favourable option, Sharron decided to proceed.
Left total knee replacement
In August 2022, Sharron underwent her left knee replacement. Beforehand, she was understandably nervous, but found that Professor Jari did his utmost to reassure her, explaining the procedure and ensuring that she understood everything. Sharron was an inpatient at Spire Manchester Hospital for two nights, during which Professor Jari was diligent in checking in on her.
Offering his expert advice, Professor Jari recommended the use of a continuous passive motion (CPM) machine, enabling Sharron to enjoy an improved range of motion, less stiffening and reduced pain.
Sharron was pleasantly surprised at the speed of her recovery. She says, “I couldn’t believe how quickly I was back on my feet; I even went back to work four weeks after my surgery. During this time, my right knee symptoms deteriorated, so Professor Jari advised me to book my right total knee replacement.”
Right total knee replacement
Sharron was admitted for her second operation four months after her initial surgery. To her delight, Sharron’s recovery second time round was even faster, returning to work three weeks post-operation. On both occasions she was able to drive after four weeks.
A new lease of life
Sharron emphasises that her overall experience at Spire Manchester Hospital was a positive one. She recalls that the care delivered by the theatre team was fantastic, as well as the professionalism shown by Professor Jari’s medical secretary.
Refusing to take her improved health for granted, Sharron now enjoys exercising on the spin bike, cross trainer or treadmill daily. Her sleep has also been restored, after her pain left her feeling tired at work.
Commenting on the life-changing impact of her surgeries Sharron says, “Professor Jari helped me get my quality of life back. At one point, I couldn’t see beyond the pain. Now, it’s a pleasure to get up every morning. I was so worried about living with a lifetime of pain aged just 52, so the relief I feel is indescribable.”
Professor Jari says, “Mrs Ford had been suffering with progressively worsening arthritic pain in both knees for some years, which was significantly affecting her, especially given her young age. This was however compounded by her concerns over having her knees replaced and the fear of the unknown in relation to her post-operative debility and pain.
However, she breezed through her recovery following her two Mako robotic-assisted total knee replacements; I am delighted with her results.”
Spire Manchester Hospital performed the most Mako robotic-assisted joint replacements in the UK in 2021 and 2022, and as of February 2023, over 1,500 Mako procedures have taken place at the hospital. To find out more about Mako, please visit our website.