Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis. It is a chronic condition in which the material that cushions the joints, called cartilage, breaks down. This causes the bones to rub against each other, causing stiffness, pain and loss of joint movement. It can happen to anyone, there are no genetics involved. It commonly affects persons in the later years of life, however with today’s active life styles we are seeing it occur in younger persons as well.
Osteoarthritis of the knee affects millions worldwide. If your knee(s) is (are) affected by this condition, the cartilage in the knee joint gradually wears away. As the cartilage wears away, it becomes frayed and rough, and the protective space between the bones decreases. This can result in cartilage wear. If the wear becomes significant, it can lead to bone on bone erosion and cause severe pain.
Your doctor might recommend different treatment options for osteoarthritis: lifestyle changes (weight loss, physical therapy), over the counter pain management, injections in the affected joint, and if everything else fails- joint replacement or arthroscopy.
Today over 5 million of people live with total knee replacements, though more and more clinical evidence is confirming that one out of 5 patients is not satisfied with the results of the surgery. Clinical research shows that on average, 80 percent of the patients who underwent the Total Knee Replacement are satisfied with the results and are able to resume active lifestyle. Twenty percent of the patients are not satisfied with the results, and express that their knee(s) don’t feel natural, and there are unable to return to an active lifestyle.
Dissatisfaction and discomfort with the implants can be caused by size or curvature mismatch between the chosen implant and the patients anatomy. Discomfort caused by the implants can also cause pain and challenges in the recovery process.
Dr. Edward Littlejohn has been performing knee replacement surgeries for 30 years. Dr. Littlejohn was always passionate about finding a solution for the patients who are expecting a “natural feeling knee” after the replacement. He has been using ConforMIS iTotal implants since 2013 and his patients haven’t been happier and more satisfied with the results of total knee replacements.
Patient undergoing the ConforMIS iTotal knee replacement is asked to perform a CT Scan of their hip, affected knee(s) and ankle prior to the procedure, to re-align leg to natural mechanical axis. Based on the individual patients anatomy, individualized implants are designed using the 3D printer.
Each ConforMIS iTotal implant is designed to mimic patient’s anatomy, shape and curves, and is matched to tibia. Dual balancing technology facilitates proper balancing of the joint lines. Patient- specific poly inserts replicate femoral offset, respecting patient’s joint lines and rotation. On the other hand, traditional implants can alter patient’s actual joint lines, compromising natural motion, creating improper rotation and wrong fit.
Measured to millimeter, ConforMIS implants feel like “your knee,” which gives you another chance to do the things you love.
From Dr. Edward Littlejohn:
“There has been an ongoing debate whether total knee implants should be gender-specific, as in the ‘Woman’s Knee’. With ConforMIS we have gone another step ahead – a personalized match of the implant to your anatomy, whether male or female. No more mismatches. The individualized implants are designed for YOUR knee.
Since I started using ConforMIS, I’ve noticed that my patients have reduced pain post operatively, their knees feel more natural and they are able to return to their active lifestyle in a short period of time.”