Orthopaedic Associates' Dr. David Dean First in Region to Offer Mako SmartRobotics™ for Shoulder Replacement

FORT WALTON BEACH, Fla. — Patients across Northwest Florida now have access to one of the most advanced technologies available for shoulder replacement surgery as Orthopaedic Associates announces that Dr. David Dean, board-certified orthopaedic surgeon, is the first surgeon in Northwest Florida and the surrounding Gulf Coast region to perform total shoulder replacement using Mako Shoulder SmartRobotics™ technology.

Patients across Northwest Florida can now receive robotic-assisted shoulder replacement closer to home, eliminating the need to travel outside the region for access to this advanced surgical option. Orthopaedic Associates is the first physician practice in the region with a Mako SmartRobotics™-trained shoulder surgeon, Dr. Dean, and the first to perform the procedure locally. The first three surgeries are already scheduled for Monday.

"Orthopaedic Associates has always been committed to bringing the latest proven advances in orthopaedic care to the communities we serve," said Darren Harris, Executive Director of Orthopaedic Associates. "As new technologies become available, our physicians are committed to obtaining the specialized training needed to offer those advancements to our patients. Mako SmartRobotics™ for shoulder replacement is another example of that commitment."

Mako SmartRobotics™ combines a patient-specific 3D CT-based surgical plan with AccuStop™ haptic technology to help surgeons optimize implant placement and execute procedures with greater precision. The technology allows surgeons to create a personalized surgical plan before entering the operating room and make adjustments during surgery based on each patient's anatomy.

For patients, the technology offers a more personalized approach to shoulder replacement by allowing surgeons to develop an individualized surgical plan based on each person's anatomy. During the procedure, the robotic system provides real-time guidance that helps optimize implant positioning and supports precise bone preparation while allowing the surgeon to adjust

as needed. Although every patient's condition and recovery are different, the technology is designed to enhance surgical planning and execution.

"Shoulder replacement surgery isn't one-size-fits-all because every patient's anatomy is unique," Dean said. "Mako allows me to create a personalized surgical plan before surgery using a 3D CT scan and then execute that plan with greater precision while remaining in complete control throughout the procedure. It’s exciting to offer this transformative technology for our shoulder replacement surgery patients close to home.”

Unlike autonomous robotics, Mako does not perform surgery independently. The surgeon remains in complete control throughout the procedure, guiding the robotic arm while using real-time feedback to stay within the planned surgical boundaries.

Orthopaedic Associates' shoulder specialists—including Dr. Dean, Dr. Mark Tenholder and Dr. James Watt—provide comprehensive care for a full range of shoulder conditions, including arthritis, rotator cuff tears, bursitis, instability, frozen shoulder and sports-related injuries. Patients have access to both nonsurgical treatment options and advanced surgical techniques, including shoulder replacement and minimally invasive arthroscopic procedures.

The introduction of robotic-assisted shoulder replacement comes as demand for shoulder replacement surgery continues to grow nationwide. Advances in implant technology and surgical techniques, coupled with an active aging population seeking to maintain mobility and quality of life, have made shoulder replacement an increasingly requested treatment option for patients living with severe arthritis and other degenerative shoulder conditions.

“Our commitment is to bring the latest innovations in healthcare to the communities we serve,” said KC Donahey, CEO of HCA Florida Fort Walton-Destin Hospital. “Introducing this advanced robotic technology for shoulder replacement demonstrates our dedication to delivering exceptional orthopaedic care close to home. By investing in leading-edge technology and partnering with highly skilled physicians, we are helping provide patients with a more personalized surgical experience and the highest level of precision available.”

Dr. Dean specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of conditions affecting the shoulder, elbow, hip, knee and wrist. His expertise includes joint replacement, arthroscopic surgery, fracture care, tendon repair and other advanced orthopaedic procedures. He emphasizes individualized treatment plans, beginning with conservative care whenever appropriate and recommending surgery only when it offers the best opportunity for restoring function and relieving pain.

A board-certified orthopaedic surgeon, Dean earned his Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine degree from Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine before completing his orthopaedic surgery residency at St. Joseph Warren Hospital in Ohio, where he received the Residency Academic Excellence Award. He also served as a lieutenant colonel in the United States Air Force and is certified by the American Osteopathic Board of Orthopedic Surgery.

Dr. Dean sees patients at Orthopaedic Associates' offices in Crestview, Fort Walton Beach and Destin. Patients interested in learning more about robotic-assisted shoulder replacement or scheduling an appointment may call 850-863-2153.