What are the new technologies in hip and knee implant surgery?

Author : kumar shrey | Published On : 03 Jan 2024

The growth in the hip and knee implant market is pushed by factors like the rising prevalence of osteoarthritis, and the aging population in Australia. As the population ages, osteoarthritis (OA) becomes more ordinary, leading to a higher demand for hip and knee replacement surgeries.

Several technologies have transformed the way that hip and knee replacement surgeries are done. These include computer navigation and robotics, smart sensors, 3D-printed implants, and augmented reality. In addition to this, according to the research report of Astute Analytica, the Australia hip and knee implants market is growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 11.46% during the forecast period from 2023 to 2030.

The new technologies in hip and knee implant surgery are: -

Robotic joint replacement

Robotic surgical arms permit surgeons to maximize the accuracy and individualization of hip and knee replacement surgery. The robotic arm allows the surgeon to ensure that each step of their surgical plan is accurately executed as intended. Before surgery, tracking devices known as arrays are placed around the knee or hip of the patient. These devices communicate the position, location, and orientation of the knee or hip to the robotic arm. If the position shifts, the robotic arm can make real-time alignment adjustments or stop the procedure until the surgical team transfers the patient accordingly.

Computer navigation

Computer navigation involves the usage of special sensors and software to make a 3D model of a knee or hip joint of the patient before surgery. The surgeon can then utilize this model during the joint replacement procedure to help in the location of the implant.

In knee replacement surgery, particularly, computer navigation can allow the surgeon to align the new knee joint with the ligaments and bones of the patient. Gaining alignment is necessary because it can improve the overall stability of the joint and decrease the risk of instability and other complications.

Advanced imaging

Imaging techniques like MRI and X-ray have always been necessary before, during, and after hip and knee implant surgery. One new method now proving useful is 3D motion capture technology. This technology utilizes a collection of cameras to track the motion of the patient in real-time to deliver improved views of the joint for surgical preplanning and during the process itself.

3D printing technology

The leading goal for any joint replacement is to develop an implant that will work for the rest of a patient’s life. For some patients, 3D-printing technologies permit surgeons to make joint implants tailored to their precise anatomy. These customized implants may decrease or eliminate the requirement for fixatives like bone cement. Customized implants also show improved ability of the natural bone to develop into the implant. This is specifically essential for patients with more complicated conditions, including those who have earlier had other implants fail.

Augmented reality technology

The surgeons wear augmented reality (AR) “smart glasses,” which let them visualize the structures of the knee of the patient and track surgical improvement in real-time by superimposing the pictures above the surgical field. With this procedure, the surgeon does not have to look over at a computer screen. This technology has the potential to enhance implant positioning.