Total knee replacements are typically done with implants and instrumentation that come in a few standardized sizes. But, as we know, everyone’s anatomy is unique, and sometimes the standardized knee replacement hardware isn’t the best fit for the patient’s knee.
This is why Dr. Scott Sigman is proud to offer patient-specific instrumentation and hardware options for total knee replacement. Using the DePuy Synthes TRUMATCH™ Personalized Solutions system and ATTUNE™ Knee System, Dr. Sigman is able to customize the procedure, implant position, and fit for each patient.
When should total knee replacement be considered?
The knee is a “hinge” joint where the thigh bone (femur) and the shin bone (tibia) meet. The knee cap (patella) glides over the femur when the knee moves.
In a healthy joint, a layer of smooth cartilage cushions the bone ends, working together with muscles, tendons and ligaments to allow you to bend your knee easily. Arthritis – particularly “wear-and-tear” arthritis or osteoarthritis – as well as certain knee injuries and diseases can damage the cartilage, causing the bones to rub together and leading to pain and stiffness.
While there are nonsurgical and surgical treatment options available for patients with arthritis and other serious conditions, those with severe pain and stiffness that do not respond to conservative treatments may require knee replacement surgery to relieve pain and restore motion to the joint.
What happens during a total knee replacement?
Total knee replacement is designed to alleviate severe arthritis pain and restore knee function so that patients can resume everyday activities.
During a total knee replacement, Dr. Sigman removes the damaged cartilage from the ends of the thigh bone and shin bone, along with a small amount of underlying bone. Metal implants are then placed to recreate the surface of the knee, and a medical-grade plastic spacer is inserted between the metal components. This allows the joint to glide smoothly when moving the knee.
How is patient-specific instrumentation used during total knee replacement?
With a patient-specific knee replacement, a CT scan is used to develop a 3-D computerized model of your entire leg. The system uses this to create a customized surgical guide, based on your unique anatomy. Dr. Sigman then uses the guides to position and place the knee implants.
Additionally, the ATTUNE™ Knee System implants and components come in a variety of sizes, so that Dr. Sigman can select the best option for the patient’s anatomy. The implants are designed to result in a greater range of motion compared to other implant options.
What are the benefits of patient-specific instrumentation?
When the instrumentation, hardware, and surgical plan are customized to the patient’s unique anatomy, there are several benefits, including:
- Improved surgical accuracy
- Better alignment and stability of the knee replacement
- More satisfactory long term results after surgery
- Lower risk of infection
- Reduced risk of complications
Improved alignment and stability results in less wear and tear over time, which helps the implant last longer than traditional knee replacement methods.
This procedure also requires fewer surgical steps and less equipment in the OR than traditional methods, so surgery is quicker. This lowers infection risks and patients spend less time under anesthesia, which reduces the chance of complications.
Why choose Dr. Scott Sigman for total knee replacement?
Dr. Scott Sigman provides a comprehensive plan to minimize your pain after surgery. He uses a long acting nerve block called iovera° to reduce pain for up to 3 months after your surgery. He then uses a long acting anesthetic that provides acute pain relief for up to 3 days after surgery. He then recommends the use of noninvasive laser therapy to reduce pain and swelling and faster return of function.
Dr. Sigman is a board certified orthopaedic surgeon with over 20 years of experience. Specializing in knee and shoulder surgery with fellowship training in sports medicine, he has helped countless patients get back to the activities they love. Dr. Sigman has provided orthopaedic care to several teams at the collegiate and professional levels, including the US Ski Jump Team, UMASS Lowell, Los Angeles Lakers, Los Angeles Dodgers, LA Angels, LA Kings, Anaheim Mighty Ducks, LA Galaxy and USC football.
Dr. Sigman is also committed to advancing the field of orthopaedic surgery. He stays informed on all of the latest developments in the field of knee replacement, including patient-specific instrumentation, and incorporates these advances into his practice when he feels there is a true benefit to patients. He has also contributed to numerous publications and research studies, as well as giving presentations, lectures, and instructional courses worldwide.
Schedule a Consultation for Total Knee Replacement in North Chelmsford, MA
If you would like to learn more about Dr. Scott Sigman’s approach to total knee replacement and find out if you are a candidate for surgery, please contact our office at (978) 454-0706.