MRI-Guided Custom Knee Replacement
Since the first knee replacement was performed in 1968, there have been many improvements in surgical materials and techniques to increase effectiveness and produce better outcomes for the patient. Total knee replacement, or arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure in which parts of the knee joints are replaced with artificial parts.
In our continuing efforts to offer our patients the best care and latest technology, we have embraced an advancement that is the patient-specific Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Guided Total Knee Arthroplasty.
Using preoperative planning combined with three-dimensional (3D) MRI images, the surgeon is equipped with a customized template for each patient prior to surgery. These 3D images enable the surgeon to precisely choose the correct size implant and plan the precise location of the components based on each patient’s specific knee anatomy and the associated arthritic changes. MRI images of the patient’s knee are sent electronically to the manufacturer of the artificial components and the guides or cutting templates are created for each patient’s specific bone structure.
This innovation offers many advantages for the patient, including:
- Shorter operating time.
- A more custom fit.
- A less invasive surgery, which can help lessen the recuperative period.
In addition, patients can experience improved balance and stability of ligaments.
Who Needs Total Knee Replacement?
A normal knee functions as a hinge joint between the upper leg bone (femur) and lower leg bones (tibia and fibula). The surfaces where these bones meet can become worn out over time, often due to arthritis or injury, which can cause pain and swelling.
The goal of knee replacement is to relieve pain, improve your quality of life, and maintain or improve knee function. If your knee is severely damaged by arthritis or injury, it may be hard for you to perform simple activities such as walking or climbing stairs. You may even begin to feel pain while you are sitting or lying down.
If medications, changing your activity level, and using walking supports are no longer helpful, you may want to consider total knee replacement surgery. Approximately 581,000 knee replacements are performed each year in the United States and more than 90 percent of the individuals who undergo the surgery experience a dramatic reduction of knee pain and a significant improvement in their ability to perform common activities of daily living.
Are You a Candidate for the MRI-Guided Procedure?
The process to determine whether or not a patient is a candidate requires a referral to one of our fellowship-trained and board-certified orthopedic surgeons for assessment of the knee’s condition. Our two expert knee orthopedic surgeons offering the MRI-guided procedure are Dr. James Kerrigan and Dr. David Weimer.
During your visit, your surgeon will review your medical history and x-rays. The physician will determine whether you are a candidate for the MRI-guided knee arthroplasty. After surgery, the surgeon will follow up with the patient and a therapy program will be created to produce the best outcome for you.
Since an MRI is required, any patient with a pacemaker who may not have an MRI and would therefore not be a candidate for the patient-specific MRI-guided knee arthroplasty. However, our physicians continue to offer conventional knee replacements to relieve your pain as well as and other programs to promote a healthy knee environment. Our mission is based on a promise to provide patients with the best quality care and we pride ourselves on moving forward with the latest technology.
Want to learn more?
Read this brochure from Zimmer, one of our suppliers.
View this video presentation from Biomet, another YOA supplier.