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Computer-Assisted Knee Replacement |
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 Traditional total joint replacement surgery is one of the most reliable and cost-effective surgical procedures in modern medicine. It has improved dramatically over the years, with smaller incisions, reduced recovery time, and better outcomes.
Computer-assisted surgery (CAS) was introduced in Europe in the late 1990s. The Joint Center at Valley Medical Center, with its medical director William Barrett, M.D., was one of eight sites that participated in a prospective multi-center clinical trial comparing CAS total knee replacement to traditional knee replacement in 2006 and 2007. While CAS proved to be safe and reliable it did not significantly improve results and added 10 minutes of surgical time. It is very useful in certain situations such as patients with previous fractures or severe deformities.
The experience gained from CAS has led to the development of computer -assisted custom guides for knee replacement. With this technology a pre-operative CT scan of the affected leg is obtained. A patient specific custom cutting guide is developed and sent to the surgeon for use during the procedure. This technology is accurate and saves time during the procedure. Dr. Barrett is participating in a multi-center prospective study evaluating the latest computer -assisted technology.
For questions or more information about this study, contact VOA Research Foundation at 425-656-5060, ext. 3063. |
