When planning a total knee replacement for patient surgeons conventionally use 2 dimensional X-ray images and a transparent template to decide the size and placement of the artificial knee components. Other surgeons plan the size and placement of the components during the actual surgery with the use of measuring instruments.
A new technique is now available called Patient Matched Knee Replacement. This new approach to preoperative planning utilizes 3 dimensional MRI images (magnetic resonance imaging) to provide the surgeon with a customized, 3D template for every patient prior to surgery. The 3D images enable the surgeon to precisely choose the correct size and plan the precise location of the components based on their patient’s knee anatomy and the associated arthritic changes.
Patient Matched Knee Replacement customizes knee replacement surgery to each and every patient. MRI images of the patient’s knee are sent electronically to the manufacturer of the artificial components to analyze and design a cutting guide from the exact specifications of the patient’s knee. The pre-op plan is then sent electronically back to the surgeon for final approval. Once approved, the manufacturer of the components creates the customized cutting guides for that particular patient’s knee and sends it along with the appropriate surgical tools to the surgeon for the procedure.
Benefits with the Patient Matched Total Knee Replacement include:
- Shorter operating time possibly leading to fewer complications
- Less invasive
- A more custom fit
- Improved balance and stability of ligaments
