Computer Navigated Knee Replacements
Computer Assisted Surgery (CAS) enhances precision for knee replacement procedures and has become a tool for well-trained, experienced surgeons. CAS provides an unobstructed view of a patient's knee joint be creating a 3-D rendering of bones and tissues of the leg. The computer guides the surgeon during the operation, which adds a new level of precision to the procedure. The computer takes the guesswork out of the procedure and offers improved control, excellent localization of key anatomical structures and better visualization regardless of the length of the incision.
CAS allows surgeons to expand the treatment options for patients with badly deformed joints or patients who previously may not have been considered good candidates for knee replacement surgery.
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CAS technology combines hardware, software and specialized instruments including a freehand probe, instrument handle and cutting guides. The instruments are equipped with small reflective marker spheres which are tracked by a sensor system. The markers reflect light back to the sensors and their locations are mirrored in virtual space on a three-dimensional model of the knee's anatomy generated from critical landmarks on the bone surface. The surgeon can then make adjustments within a millimeter and one degree of accuracy guided by real time images viewed on a large screen.
Traditional knee replacement procedures typically rely on X-rays to assess joint alignment. CAS enables the surgeon to do virtually planning and kinematics assessment before making bone cuts.
Traditional knee replacement typically provides excellent results for patients with mild to moderate arthritis and normal leg size and body weight. In the past, patients with complex joint problems or obesity were discouraged from having knee replacement surgery. This improved precision in implant alignment has the potential to significantly extend implant longevity and raise the expectations for good outcomes in such cases. For patients with severe deformity or complex joint problems, this enhanced precision is invaluable. It also eliminates leg size as a factor.