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Ed Yeates ReportingAlmost like a robot, a new computerized navigator is tailor-making near perfect fits for knee replacements. So far, 15 patients have let this device do its thing on their knees at Jordan Valley Hospital.
Using model bones, Dr. Charles Beck shows us how this new navigator works. Before implanting a new synthetic knee, the orthopedic surgeon simply points to various parts of the bone with an instrument.
Two small navigators temporarily pinned to each side of the joint send infrared signals to a nearby computer, which identifies where in space the leg really is. The surgeon watches as the system literally paints in front of him a tailor-made fit.
Think of this like the tires on your car, only on a much more sophisticated level. You want a perfect balance, a perfect fit.
Charles Beck, M.D., Orthopedic Surgeon, Jordan Valley Hospital: "So this is a long-term investment for the patient; not just a short term, make you feel better faster. This is what's going to happen in 20 years."
Twenty years with a knee that still works, still fits. No eyeballing, no guesswork, no large incisions, no more pounding a rod through the middle of the bone trying to line things up. The system brings the hip to knee to ankle weight bearing line right down the middle, in near perfect alignment -- hopefully zero or within one degree.
Dr. Beck: "The better chance that prosthesis has of lasting as long as possible, theoretically, the rest of the patient's life."
Elaine Schwanebeck: "I would do the other knee tomorrow if I could get off work (laughs.)"
Dr. Beck says navigators like this could become the new tools for new generation orthopedic surgeons coming out of med schools.
For more on this new emerging technology, call Jordan Valley Hospital at 562-3129 or check out the links at the top right of this story.
