New tools allow for precision when replacing knees in patients with complex or atypical bone structures.

Story by: Erica Coghill on April 3, 2019

Advances in joint replacement have greatly improved the precision of the surgeon’s work, speeding recovery and reducing time in the hospital.

But if the patient’s knee is scarred from prior surgery, atypical since birth or even damaged by injury, the sophisticated tools that help guide the surgeon haven’t been of much use.

Until now.

An innovative procedure at Norton Orthopedic Institute provides precise, computer-assisted guidance when the patient’s bone structure is well outside of what’s typical.

The usual tools haven’t been useful in complex knee replacements

Tools used in traditional knee replacements that guide surgeons in the placement of the implant are designed with typical anatomy in mind.

Sensors attached to the new joint allow surgeons at Norton Orthopedic Institute to help patients in need of knee replacements. The sensors detect the exact, often very unique, anatomy of the patient.

Precision allows for a more comfortable knee replacement

Any patient or surgeon wants precision, but in the case of orthopedic implants, proper alignment of the new joint is critical to the success and longevity of the implant. The implant needs to line up perfectly with the patient’s body alignment and move fluidly. A properly aligned joint fits within the patient’s anatomy and makes the implant feel like a more natural joint.

The new iASSIST system at Norton Orthopedic Institute measures subtle movements — down to 1 degree — to ensure the joint is aligned properly.