Christus Health Performs Robot-Assisted Shoulder Replacement
The procedure marks the first of its kind in East Texas and the second statewide using the Mako SmartRobotics platform.
Updated on Nov. 10, 2026 in Arthritis
Christus Health completed its first robot-assisted total shoulder replacement on November 2, performed by Dr. Azael Arizpe using the Mako SmartRobotics platform. Stryker confirmed the procedure was the first of its kind in East Texas and the second in Texas.
Why it matters
Shoulder replacement can relieve pain, weakness, and limited mobility caused by advanced arthritis or severe rotator cuff damage. Robotic assistance is intended to help surgeons carry out a detailed surgical plan with greater precision.
The milestone is a hospital and manufacturer-confirmed procedure count, placing Christus Health first in East Texas and second in Texas for robot-assisted shoulder replacements. Patient outcomes and long-term implant durability for the new procedure have not yet been reported.
The players
Christus Health
Christus Health is a nonprofit Catholic health system operating hospitals and clinics across Texas and several other states.
Stryker
Stryker is a global medical technology company that manufactures the Mako SmartRobotics platform used in orthopedic surgery.
Dr. Azael Arizpe
Dr. Azael Arizpe is the orthopedic surgeon who performed the first robot-assisted total shoulder replacement at Christus Health.
The details
Dr. Azael Arizpe performed the procedure using the Mako SmartRobotics platform, which helps surgeons execute a surgical plan developed before surgery with robotic assistance. Reverse shoulder replacement, one option for patients whose rotator cuff no longer functions properly, can restore function when used with this approach.
Timeline
November 2, 2026: Christus Health completes its first robot-assisted total shoulder replacement.
November 10, 2026: Report on the procedure is published.
Health Landscape
The story extends Stryker's Mako SmartRobotics platform, already used for hip and knee replacements, into shoulder surgery. It reflects a broader move of robotic-assisted orthopedic techniques into joints beyond those first adopted.
Patients with advanced arthritis or severe rotator cuff damage who experience ongoing shoulder pain and limited mobility may ask their orthopedic surgeon whether robot-assisted shoulder replacement is an option. Local patients can explore Christus Orthopedics & Sports Medicine Institute information to learn more.
The takeaway
Robotic assistance is being used to support more precise shoulder replacement surgery in East Texas. Patients considering the procedure can discuss whether it fits their condition with an orthopedic surgeon.
Further reading
Explore more on Arthritis for background on the conditions that shoulder replacement can treat.
More information
Learn more through Christus Orthopedics & Sports Medicine Institute information on the Christus Health website.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Tyler Morning Telegraph.
