Conditions + Treatments
Knee Replacement (Total)
Mako Technology
I worked at St. Vincent's Birmingham for 18 years and saw Andrews Sports Medicine being built. I was having trouble with my knee and received a strong recommendation to see Dr. David Moore, one of Andrews Sports Medicine's joint replacement specialists. Looking back, from the beginning of my experience to the end, I know I couldn’t have chosen a better surgeon.
On December 21, 2017, I saw Dr. Moore for the first time. Dr. Moore brought copies of my MRI to our appointment and said they definitely needed to proceed with surgery. He scheduled me an appointment for February and explained that he would be utilizing the Mako Robotic-Arm Assisted System during the surgery.
Prior to surgery, I attended the joint camp with my husband so I knew exactly what to expect pre and post surgery. I went into the surgery knowing that this was something I needed to go through in order to get the outcome I wanted. That same day, I was able to go in for my CT scan at Andrews Sports Medicine and I didn’t need to make multiple trips, which was really nice. I have a background in healthcare administration and I know how much detail and planning can make a difference in the patient’s experience. Having everything scheduled on the same day was absolutely wonderful.
On February 5, 2018 Dr. Moore performed my knee replacement surgery. Right after surgery I thought I would feel pain, but I didn’t. The only pain I felt was from the incision, but nothing internal. Julie, the joint camp nurse, and Michelle, Dr. Moore's clinical care coordinator, came by and scheduled a follow-up appointment for me so I didn’t have to worry about calling people. Dr. Moore also set up at-home therapy for me.
After 6 weeks, I was able to stop using my shower chair and could dress myself. I look back now and I’m just so surprised that Dr. Moore and the technology he utilized was able to perform that type of surgery on me. It really didn't experience much pain during my recovery.
My husband was my main support system through the entire process. He took a family medical leave so he could help me with everything. I couldn’t drive for six weeks, but the other day I was able to drive myself to the grocery store and back. I attended church the last three Sundays and now, everyone wants to see my doctor!
The whole process at Andrews Sports Medicine was great. Yes, there was pain from my incision, but I quickly saw light at the end of the tunnel. Dr. Moore, his expertise, and the assistance he got from the Mako System made all the difference in the world. The clinical coordinator at the hospital was so kind and called to ask how I was doing post surgery. And the ladies in x-ray, oh my goodness! They were so kind and helpful. This is the first time I’ve spoken up and said I wanted to tell my story because of how positive my experience was.
I had my post-op appointment yesterday and the x-ray showed perfect alignment. There was a 107 range in motion and I can straighten my leg. The incision healed up wonderfully with no problems at all. Thank you Dr. Moore and Andrews Sports Medicine staff!
