West Jefferson Medical Center Acquires Newest Technology to Assist in Joint Replacement Surgery

Marrero, LA (January 2022) – Continuing its mission of offering the latest medical advancements to the Westbank community, West Jefferson Medical Center unveils the most advanced technology for patients needing a hip or knee replacement, and it centers around the use of robotics.

West Jefferson is now collaborating with Stryker, one of the world’s leading medical technology companies, to introduce Mako SmartRobotics ™ (Mako). The high-tech device is equipped with a robotic arm and computer software, including 3D scanning capabilities, which offers numerous advances for surgeons and better health outcomes for patients. “On average, more than one million Americans have joint replacement surgery every year and one in four adults suffer with severe knee and hip pain,” says Westbank Orthopedic Surgeon, Dr. Gustavo Godoy. “We’re on a mission to change the statistics, one patient at a time with Mako SmartRobotics™.

Dr. Neil Duplantier, also a Westbank Orthopedic Surgeon, explains how Mako is dramatically changing how doctors approach hip and knee replacement surgery. “Before we even make an incision, we have the most detailed plan for joint replacement because of this technology, and the plan is personalized for every patient,” Dr. Duplantier notes. Before surgery, every patient undergoes a 3D CT scan on the joint being replaced, which allows for the highest level of pre-operative planning. Once in the operating room, Dr. Duplantier explains, “The robotic arm, equipped with special tools, allows the surgeon to implant the new joint with an incredible amount of precision while minimizing damage to surrounding bone and tissue, which allows for faster healing and better patient outcomes. The best in healthcare is now closer than ever before.”

When it comes to patients, this innovative technology provides a wide array of advantages, starting with a dramatic decrease in post-operative pain, so fewer opiate-based medications are prescribed. In addition, hospital stays are shorter, and because the replacement joint surgery is so customized, the implant functions better and feels more natural.

“West Jefferson Medical Center believes our community deserves it all. We are always seeking innovative ways to improve patient-centered care and ensure our patients receive the best-of-the-best in health care,” comments Rob Calhoun, President & Chief Executive Officer of West Jefferson Medical Center. As one of the medical facilities on the Westbank with Mako SmartRobotics, Calhoun says, “Our patients can now benefit from the latest in joint replacement technology while staying close to home, and that’s extremely important. We are immensely proud of this investment and we know it will have an immediate impact on the health of our community now and for generations to come.”

About West Jefferson Medical Center

Founded in 1956, West Jefferson Medical Center (West Jefferson) is a 419-bed community hospital located in Marrero, La. As a full-service medical center, West Jefferson offers comprehensive programs for preventive, emergency, acute and rehabilitative care with a medical staff of more than 450 physicians and a complement of 1,700 employees and many volunteers. The medical center enjoys national awards for clinical excellence across many of its subspecialties.

West Jefferson is a proud member of LCMC Health, a Louisiana-based, not-for-profit hospital system serving the healthcare needs of the Gulf Coast region. LCMC Health currently manages award-winning community hospitals including Children’s Hospital, Touro, New Orleans East Hospital, East Jefferson General Hospital, University Medical Center New Orleans, and West Jefferson Medical Center.