Dr. Gregory Gasbarro Leads Introduction of Advanced Robotic-Assisted Shoulder Arthroplasty at Mercy

Baltimore, Maryland — Mercy Medical Center is advancing orthopedic care in the Mid-Atlantic region with the introduction of MAKO SmartRobotics™ technology for shoulder replacement surgery. The technology, which enhances precision and personalization in shoulder arthroplasty procedures, is now available to patients through orthopedic shoulder specialist Gregory V. Gasbarro, M.D., among the first in the Mid-Atlantic region performing robotic MAKO shoulder arthroplasty.

The addition of MAKO SmartRobotics™ for shoulder replacement represents the latest advancement in Mercy's comprehensive orthopedic program and provides patients with access to cutting-edge surgical technology close to home.

MAKO SmartRobotics™ for shoulder replacement utilizes a detailed 3D CT scan to create a personalized surgical plan based on each patient's unique anatomy. During surgery, the robotic technology assists the surgeon in executing that plan with enhanced precision and control while allowing the surgeon to make real-time adjustments as needed.

MAKO Robot

"Bringing MAKO SmartRobotics™ shoulder technology to Mercy represents a significant advancement in the care we provide patients suffering from shoulder arthritis and other debilitating shoulder conditions," said Dr. Gasbarro. "This technology allows us to create a highly individualized surgical plan and execute it with exceptional precision. The result is a more personalized approach to shoulder replacement that may improve implant positioning, optimize outcomes, and help patients return to the activities they enjoy."

A board-certified orthopedic surgeon and fellowship-trained shoulder specialist, Dr. Gasbarro focuses exclusively on shoulder injuries and conditions. His expertise spans both complex shoulder reconstruction and shoulder replacement procedures, making Mercy a regional destination for advanced shoulder care.

“As orthopedic technology continues to evolve, Mercy remains committed to providing our patients with the most advanced treatment options available," said Marc W. Hungerford, M.D., Chief of Orthopedics at Mercy Medical Center. “The introduction of robotic-assisted shoulder replacement further strengthens Mercy's position as a leader in orthopedic innovation and gives patients throughout Maryland and the Mid-Atlantic access to the latest advances in shoulder care."

Shoulder replacement surgery is often recommended for patients experiencing chronic shoulder pain, arthritis, rotator cuff arthropathy, or significant loss of shoulder function that has not responded to conservative treatments. The addition of MAKO SmartRobotics™ technology expands the range of advanced surgical options available through Mercy's orthopedic team.

By offering robotic-assisted shoulder replacement, Mercy Medical Center continues its commitment to delivering leading-edge orthopedic care while helping patients achieve improved mobility, reduced pain, and a return to everyday activities, Dr. Hungerford said.

Gregory V. Gasbarro, M.D., is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon and fellowship-trained shoulder specialist at The Shoulder, Elbow, Wrist and Hand Center at Mercy Medical Center in Baltimore, Maryland. He specializes in the repair and reconstruction of injuries to the shoulder and treats patients who are ages 15 and older.

Dr. Gasbarro serves as Medical Director of The Shoulder Joint Journey program, an initiative to optimize recovery and provide comprehensive patient education for shoulder replacement surgery. As part of program, Dr. Gasbarro works with his colleagues, orthopedic surgeons Dr. Joseph Ciotola, Dr. Mark Slabaugh and Dr. John-Paul Rue, treating patients with rotator cuff tears, fractures, arthritis, etc. 

Founded in 1874 in Baltimore by the Sisters of Mercy, Mercy Medical Center is a nonprofit Catholic health care organization and teaching hospital. Mercy has been recognized nationally by both U.S. News and World Report and Newsweek for its achievements in the field of orthopedic surgery. For more information, visit Mercy online at www.mdmercy.com; MDMercyMedia on Facebook and Twitter(X); www.youtube.com/mmcbaltimore; or call 1-800-M.D.-Mercy.