About Computer 3D Navigation

Computer 3D navigation guiding the surgeon through the implantation of a total knee replacement is the newest and perhaps most exciting innovation. Through infrared sensing of patient anatomy the computer can precisely advise the surgeon as to the exact location new knee implants should be positioned. This technology carries the promise of improving the precision of total knee replacement surgery, thus, improving the short and longterm performance of the knee replacement.

Benefits Of Computer Navigation over manual method to the Patients Undergoing Knee Replacement?

• Almost 100 percent Accuracy (Zero error Technique)
• Less soft tissue dissection (minimal invasive procedure) therefore Less postoperative pain and a shorter and smaller scar
• Minimizes blood loss so no need for blood transfusion in knee replacement patients
• Very less chances of pulmonary embolism
• Perfect implant alignment and balancing of the knee
• Maximizes longevity of implant i.e life of the implant is increased Faster recovery and shorter hospital stays, less time on a walker, and a quicker return to normal function.
• Best results in patients with previous implants (plate or nail) in bones, severe deformities in thigh bone or leg bone, previous High tibial osteotomy (HTO), very obese or overweight patients.

SURGICAL TECHNIQUE

The surgical technique of computer navigation starts with the use of an infrared sensor marking and mapping the anatomy of the arthritic knee and adjacent bony structures (the femur and tibia). Through the use of sophisticated software the computer is able to ascertain the alignment of the knee in space from hip not ankle and detect and quantify any deformities or bone loss. It then, with input from the surgeon, can determine what changes need be made via bone cuts and ligament balancing so as to position the new artificial knee in the proper anatomic alignment. The computer gathers a three dimensional image of the anatomy of the knee preoperatively and the intended anatomy of the knee at the completion of surgery. It is the surgeon’s job to interpret this data so that at the completion of the procedure normal patient anatomy is established as precisely as possible. This will provide the opportunity for the patient to regain the maximum function and motion possible.

Reverse shoulder replacement is reserved for patients who have arthritis and a chronic rotator cuff tear or in some instances a failed prosthesis and have no other treatment alternatives. In this procedure, the location of the prosthetic ball and socket components are switched to make use of healthy deltoid muscle rather than the damaged rotator cuff muscles to lift the arm.

At the end of surgery, the computer generates a surgery report which has details of all the real time images captured during various steps of surgery. This compiled report is preserved in our records and given to patients on demand.