Goshen Health celebrates ‘Cinco de Mako’ educational event to discuss robotic-assisted surgery

Community members gathered on Tuesday, May 5, for Goshen Health’s Cinco de Mako Robotic-Assisted Surgery Event. This was an engaging and informative evening designed to spotlight innovation in orthopedic care while creating a welcoming, festive atmosphere.

The event was held from 4-6 p.m. in the Arbors Conference Room at Goshen Hospital. The Cinco de Mako event combined education and conversation to introduce attendees to the future of joint replacement surgery while celebrating Cinco de Mayo.

“We wanted to provide the community with a relaxed atmosphere to learn about robotic-assisted options for joint replacements. There have been so many advancements over the last five to ten years, and we wanted to highlight what that technology looks like at Goshen Health. Having Stryker’s Mako SmartRobotics system here for total joint replacement allows for a more precise surgical plan,” said Director of Orthopedics Ginny Schackow. “We felt that the community didn’t have a great understanding of our robotics program, so we wanted to make sure that we could further their understanding as they’re making choices for where they go for total joint care.”

The event invited guests to join the fiesta and discover how robotic-assisted joint replacement can help patients move more freely and live with less pain. Attendees had the opportunity to learn about Mako SmartRobotics technology. Through presentations and discussions, Goshen Health emphasized the value that this approach has.

“The purpose of the Mako SmartRobotics technology is to make it much more scientific. We take a CT scan, also known as a CAT scan, of the patient’s hip or knee, and that helps map it out. We can use the technology with the patient’s own anatomy to help give them the best total joint care catered specifically to them,” said Doctor Bryan Boyer. “It establishes precise, controlled boundaries within the surgical field, helping ensure movements stay within the intended area for greater accuracy and enhanced patient safety.”

Dr. Christopher Owens and Boyer, two Goshen orthopedic surgeons, led the conversation throughout the evening, sharing insights into the benefits of robotic-assisted procedures and what patients can expect before, during, and after surgery. Their expertise helped break down the technology to the attendees, while reinforcing Goshen Health’s commitment to patient-centered care and innovation.

Throughout the event, attendees were encouraged to ask questions and engage directly with the surgeons, creating an open dialogue about joint pain, treatment options, and recovery expectations. The setting allowed for meaningful one-on-one interactions, helping community members feel more confident and informed about their healthcare choices.

“We have heard the community express their desire to speak one on one with our orthopedic surgeons and understand what a total joint replacement looks like. But many people are afraid to make that initial appointment, and this gives them the opportunity to meet the surgeons in a casual environment, so they feel confident making the next steps,” said Schackow.

In addition to the educational component, guests enjoyed complimentary refreshments. Goshen Health leaders noted that the Cinco de Mako event is intended to become an annual tradition, serving as both a celebration of surgical advancement and a platform for continued community outreach.

“Next year, we look forward to continuing to celebrate milestone cases,” said Schackow. “Additionally, robotics are ever evolving, and we’re excited to share those updates with the community first-hand.”

As technology continues to evolve, providers are finding new ways to enhance precision, reduce recovery time, and improve the long-term outcomes for patients. By the end of the evening, attendees left not only with a better understanding of robotic-assisted surgery, but also with a stronger connection to both the specialists providing the care and the spirit of Cinco de Mayo.

For more information on Goshen Health, you can visit goshenhealth.com.