An Alabama first. An Andrews milestone.
On November 6, 2026, Andrews Sports Medicine’s Dr. Wayne McGough, assisted by his physician assistant, Katie Ivey, PA-C, and their surgical team, performed the first robotic-assisted total shoulder replacement using Stryker’s Mako SmartRobotics™ technology in the state of Alabama.
The procedure marks a new milestone for Andrews Sports Medicine, building on years of experience in robotic-assisted joint replacement and expanding the surgical options available to patients with shoulder pain and arthritis.
Building on Our Experience in Robotic-Assisted Joint Replacement
Since 2017, Andrews Sports Medicine’s orthopaedic surgeons have performed more than 10,000 total knee and hip replacements utilizing Mako SmartRobotics™.
Now, we’re proud to mark surgical case #1 for Mako total shoulder replacement.
This milestone reflects our continued commitment to bringing advanced surgical technology and personalized orthopaedic care to the patients and communities we serve.
What is Mako SmartRobotics™
Mako SmartRobotics™ combines surgical planning technology with robotic-arm assistance to help surgeons perform joint replacement procedures.
For shoulder replacement, this technology supports a personalized surgical plan based on the patient’s anatomy and helps the surgeon execute that plan with precision. Dr. McGough remains in control throughout the procedure; the technology assists his work rather than performing surgery independently.
A Team Behind the Milestone
This achievement reflects the preparation, expertise and collaboration of Dr. McGough, Katie Ivey, PA-C, and their surgical team.
Together, they helped bring a new surgical option to Andrews Sports Medicine patients while continuing our commitment to aggressively pursuing Victory Over Injury®.
Explore Your Shoulder Treatment Options
Shoulder pain can make everyday activities—from getting dressed to sleeping comfortably—more difficult. Andrews Sports Medicine offers comprehensive shoulder care, including non-surgical treatments and surgical options tailored to each patient’s condition, goals and needs.
To learn more about Dr. Wayne McGough or explore treatment options for shoulder pain, visit his physician profile or request an appointment with Andrews Sports Medicine.
Treatment recommendations depend on an individual evaluation. Robotic-assisted shoulder replacement is not appropriate for every patient. Results and recovery vary.