September 18, 2026
A milestone in orthopedic care was reached recently when Alexander Aleem, MD, MSc, a WashU Medicine orthopedic surgeon, performed a robotic-assisted shoulder replacement procedure.
The surgery took place Aug. 19 at Barnes-Jewish West County Hospital's Ambulatory Surgery Center (ASC). It was the first use within BJC Health of a robotic platform designed specifically for shoulder replacement surgery.
“This is an exciting milestone for our team,” says Dr. Aleem. “We have access to incredible technology, but what drives us is our commitment to doing what is best for each patient.”
Robotic-assisted technology can minimize bone and soft tissue damage during surgery and reduce the need for pain medication. Other benefits often include shortened hospital stays and decreased physical therapy requirements after surgery.
Before surgery, Dr. Aleem used detailed 3D planning software and imaging to create a personalized surgical plan based on the patient's anatomy. During the procedure, the robotic system provided real-time guidance and assisted with the precise placement of surgical instruments and implants.
The planning software enabled Dr. Aleem to assess areas of bone loss and determine optimal implant positioning before surgery. The robotic platform then helped translate that plan into action through virtual boundaries that guided bone preparation, supporting precision while allowing the surgeon to maintain control throughout the procedure.
While the technology represents an advancement in surgical care, much of the patient experience before surgery remains familiar. Katie Mahajan, RN, who served as the pre-operative nurse for the procedure, says the preparation process follows the same patient-centered approach used for any shoulder replacement.
“We provide chlorhexidine and povidone iodine cleaning practices for the patients to aid in preventing post-operative infection, ask the standard questions, and educate them on what it’s going to look like for the day,” she says. “Then the anesthesiologist and block nurse come in.”
The care team’s focus on patient comfort extends beyond the operating room. Madelyn Sportsman, RN, worked with the anesthesiologist to administer a nerve block, helping manage pain during the critical first few days of recovery.
“Between the nerve block and the robotic-assisted surgery, which allows for a smaller incision and more precise work, the patient may end up having a shorter and easier recovery compared to traditional methods for shoulder replacement,” says Madelyn.
For the clinical team, those patient benefits are among the most meaningful advantages of the new technology. The addition of robotic-assisted shoulder surgery gives surgeons another tool to tailor procedures to each patient’s unique anatomy. While robotic technology has become increasingly common in hip and knee replacement procedures, its application in shoulder replacement is still emerging, making this milestone particularly significant for patients seeking advanced orthopedic care.
“Robotic-assisted surgery helps us personalize treatment and deliver the high level of care our patients deserve,” says Dr. Aleem.
Beyond the success of a single procedure, leaders see the technology as part of a broader effort to bring innovative surgical options to more patients across the region.
As orthopedic technologies continue to evolve, the goal remains the same: helping patients reduce pain, restore function, and return to their daily activities. The successful completion of BJC Health's first robotic-assisted shoulder procedure reflects an ongoing commitment to advancing patient care through innovation.
Originally published by BJWCH
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