OrthoSensor
Total knee replacement has evolved significantly since first performed in 1968. Improvements in materials, techniques, and instrumentation have greatly increased its effectiveness. The National Institutes of Health states that knee replacement surgery has shown to be a safe and cost-effective treatment for alleviating pain and restoring function for patients who have not responded to non-surgical therapies.
One of the latest advancements in total knee replacement that is delivering improved patient outcomes is the use of sensor technology – called VERASENSE – during the procedure. VERASENSE was developed to provide quantitative data to support orthopaedic surgeons’ decisions regarding soft tissue balance and implant position in real-time during surgery. These are two important factors in the success of a knee replacement. Improper soft tissue balance and implant position may lead to premature implant failure and the need for revision surgery in the future.
Historically, surgeons had to rely on their judgment and experience to balance the knee. VERASENSE is making soft tissue balance a more precise science. Once the implant is placed in the knee, VERASENSE replaces the plastic tibial trial spacer, which is part of the knee implant. As your surgeon takes your knee through the range of motion, the sensor wirelessly communicates with a monitor in the operating room, providing data to assist your surgeon in better balancing your knee.
Ask Dr. Sah about his research study evaluating this technology and offering free access to patients who are interested.
