Customizable Knee Replacement
One of the latest advancements in Orthopaedics is the development of “Customizable” Knee Replacements. What makes this knee replacement different from the more traditional approaches? The knee to be replaced will be scanned by MRI or CT to chart the exact dimensions of the knee. Using a special software program, the mapped dimensions of the knee, in its current arthritic state, are translated into a 3-D model of the knee. The “custom” part of the knee replacement is the creation of custom cutting guides used for the patient’s surgery. These guides replicate the original anatomy of the knee by correcting deformities caused by arthritis or trauma and allow the surgeon to more precisely prepare the patient’s bone for implantation. The surgeon can also more closely determine which size implant is appropriate for the patient. The guides also aid in the placement of the implant so that the knee more closely approximates the patient’s natural leg alignment.
What are the benefits of Customizable Knee Implants?
Because this is a relatively new technology, there are no long-term studies showing comparing the recovery times or outcomes for patients who receive a Customizable Knee Implant with traditional knee replacements. However, there are several expected benefits from use of this technology:
