HonorHealth first in nation to use new handheld robotics for joint replacement

Advanced device enhances surgeon's ability to plan and perform joint replacement procedures with real-time data and robotic guidance

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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HonorHealth, a leading Valley-based nonprofit healthcare system serving more than five million people in the greater Phoenix area, announced it is the first health system in the nation to perform joint replacement surgery using Stryker's new Mako RPS handheld robotics technology, bringing a new level of precision and personalization to orthopedic care in Arizona.

Why it matters

This new handheld robotics technology allows HonorHealth's board-certified orthopedic surgeons to make highly accurate bone preparation and implant placement decisions tailored to each patient's unique anatomy, which can lead to more precise implant positioning, improved alignment, and ultimately better patient outcomes.

The details

The advanced device enhances the surgeon's ability to plan and perform joint replacement procedures with real-time data and robotic guidance. Unlike traditional techniques, the handheld robotics system allows surgeons to make highly accurate bone preparation and implant placement decisions tailored to each patient's unique anatomy. By combining advanced robotics with the expertise of HonorHealth's board-certified orthopedic surgeons, patients may benefit from more precise implant positioning, improved alignment and a personalized surgical experience.

  • The first procedure was completed on January 13, 2026, at HonorHealth Sonoran Crossing Medical Center.
  • More than 55 cases have been performed so far.

The players

Doug Werner, M.D.

Orthopedic surgeon at HonorHealth.

Gayle Cassidy

AVP, HonorHealth Orthopedics.

Stryker

The company that developed the new Mako RPS handheld robotics technology used by HonorHealth.

HonorHealth

A leading Valley-based nonprofit healthcare system serving more than five million people in the greater Phoenix area.

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What they’re saying

“This technology allows us to deliver highly personalized care with an unprecedented level of accuracy and precision. It gives us the ability to plan each procedure in meticulous detail while remaining adaptable in the operating room. This combination of precision and flexibility helps us optimize alignment, protect healthy tissue, and ultimately improve patient outcomes - enabling patients to move better, experience less pain, and recover with greater confidence.”

— Doug Werner, M.D., Orthopedic surgeon at HonorHealth (natlawreview.com)

“Bringing this handheld robotics technology to HonorHealth reflects our commitment to investing in innovations that support patient care. This technology has the potential to reduce case time and anesthesia exposure, and it may eliminate the need for pre-operative radiation or full-leg CT scans in some cases. Most importantly, it supports our goal of delivering safer, more personalized joint replacement care for the communities we serve.”

— Gayle Cassidy, AVP, HonorHealth Orthopedics (natlawreview.com)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This new handheld robotics technology used by HonorHealth's orthopedic surgeons represents a significant advancement in joint replacement procedures, allowing for more precise, personalized, and potentially safer care that can lead to better outcomes for patients.