Knee replacement surgery has come a long way in recent decades. What was once a complex and invasive procedure is now much-improved thanks to the latest technologies. These advances allow for more customized, precise, and minimally invasive replacements – all aimed at improving patient outcomes and recovery time. Here are some of the key technologies transforming knee replacements today.
Robotic-Assisted Knee Replacement
Robotic-assisted surgery uses a robotic arm to help position and align the knee implant components precisely. The surgeon still performs the procedure, but robotic guidance technology ensures millimeter accuracy that the human eye and hand cannot achieve alone. Studies show that robotic-assisted procedures lead to better implant positioning, reduced outliers, and higher patient satisfaction. The robotic arm helps compensate for any small hand tremors and dramatically improves the reproducibility of the surgery between surgeries and surgeons.
3D Printing of Custom Implants
3D printing is enabling the creation of truly customized knee implants based on 3D scans and models of the patient’s unique anatomy. The 3D scans are converted into digital models of the knee that are then used to print implants designed to fit that specific patient perfectly. The implants can match the shape, size, and geometry of the patient’s knee joint down to the millimeter. This results in a better functional match of the implant and can reduce risks of loosening, misalignment, and revisions.
Computer Navigation Technology
Computer navigation systems use images from preoperative CT or MRI scans to guide implant placement and alignment in real-time during surgery. Trackers attached to surgical tools provide data on the position and angle of the tools that are overlaid on the CT/MRI images. This technology helps ensure the implants are positioned precisely according to the surgical plan. Studies show navigation systems can reduce outliers in implant alignment and component positioning to within 1 to 2 degrees of the planned alignment.
Patient-Specific Instruments
Patient-specific instruments are designed specifically for individual patients based on their preoperative scans. Templates, cutting blocks, and guides are customized to match key anatomical features of the knee. This allows for better reproduction of the surgical plan and positioning during the procedure. Since the instruments match the patient’s unique anatomy, they are designed to optimize implant alignment and fit. Studies show that patient-specific instruments can improve the accuracy of component placement and generally reduce the risk of complications during surgery.
New Implant Materials
New materials for knee implants continue to evolve, including stronger and more durable metals, ceramics, and advanced polymer blends meant for bearing or articulating surfaces. Cobalt chromium alloys remain common base metal options but with improved metallurgy for increased strength and longevity. Ceramics have gained popularity for their articulating surfaces, offering less wear, higher strength, and resistance to creep. Highly cross-linked polyethylene blends have also improved the wear resistance of plastic tibial inserts. Together these new materials are designed to improve implant performance, reduce wear debris and extend the lifespan of knee replacements.
What is the Cost of the Newest knee replacement surgery?
The newest knee replacement surgery costs in India range from around Rs. 3-5 lakhs, depending on the hospital, surgeon, and type of implant used. Here are some of the key factors that determine the cost:
• Hospital – The cost of knee replacement surgery varies significantly between private and government hospitals in India. Private hospitals tend to charge higher fees. Reputed private hospitals may charge around Rs. 5 lakhs or more for a knee replacement.
• Surgeon’s fees – The fees charged by the orthopedic surgeon performing the knee replacement procedure also contribute to the overall cost. Senior surgeons and specialists tend to charge higher fees.
• Implant cost – The type of knee implant used, whether imported or domestic, also impacts the cost. Imported implants from leading manufacturers tend to be more expensive.
• Hospital stay and anesthesia charges – The cost of the hospital stay, medicines, physiotherapy, and anesthesia charges during and after the surgery also add to the overall expense.
Which are the best knee replacement devices available in India?
Here are some of the best knee replacement devices and implants available in India:
• Zimmer Biomet: Zimmer Biomet offers a wide range of knee implants in India, including the Persona, NexGen, and Signature series. They are recognized for their advanced design and biocompatibility.
• DePuy Synthes: DePuy Synthes implants from Johnson & Johnson are also popular in India. Their Attune, Ascend Flex, and Vanguard knee systems are widely used.
• Smith & Nephew: Implants like the Journey II unicondylar and Genesis II total knee are considered gold standards from Smith & Nephew and are widely used in India.
• Stryker: Stryker offers a comprehensive portfolio of knee implants in India, including the Triathlon Total Knee System, LCS Complete, and Scorpio NRG systems.
• Corin: Corin knee implants like the GMT Anatomic, Surgical Technique, and Tritanium have a strong reputation and are preferred by many orthopedic surgeons in India.
• Aesculap: Aesculap, a B.Braun company, sells its Versys, Triblock, and Limb Positioning System devices in India. They are known for their reliability and innovation.
• B. Braun: B. Braun’s Uni and Primus Knee systems are gaining popularity in India. They are designed for less invasive surgery options.