Joint Replacement Institute

Computer Assisted Surgery (CAS) | Naples, Florida

Since the 1960s, orthopedic surgeons have performed total joint replacement with great success in the United States. While prosthetic components have been improved in fit and material, very few innovations in the procedure have occurred until the advent of computer-assisted navigation.

Dr. Kurtis Biggs uses innovative technology such as Stryker’s Computer Assisted Navigation system, as well as MAKOplasty, to deliver the most natural results for his patients in the Naples, South Florida area. Dr. Biggs advocates computer-assisted surgery because it allows for enhanced viewing of the joint compared to open surgery, while at the same time requiring a much smaller incision. Benefits of utilizing computer-assisted navigation for orthopedic surgery include increased accuracy of joint placement, better performance of the implant, as well as increased longevity and wear resistance characteristics.

Improvements to Total Joint Replacement

Because each patient is unique, slight differences in joint placement can significantly affect the performance of a hip or knee implant. The level of accuracy provided by computer assisted surgical navigation is incredibly precise. Computer assisted navigation access to view of seeing exactly where the cuts must be made to perform the reconstructive joint procedure. The CAS system uses three-dimensional imaging to give the surgeon real-time feedback, which is important when performing minimally invasive procedures on hip and knee joints.

Some surgeons liken the computer navigation system for joint replacement surgery to a GPS system. Once a surgeon inserts the implant, they can visualize the full range of motion to determine the best placement of the implant.

Benefits and Advantages of Computer Assisted Navigation

Potential benefits of computer-assisted surgery include:

• More precise placement of the replacement joint
• Better wear characteristics of the implant
• Improved stability of the knee or hip joint
• Less blood loss
• Reduced scarring
• Shorter post-operative rehabilitation period

Stryker Computer-Assisted Navigation

Stryker’s Computer-Assisted Navigation system uses tracking devices to give the orthopedic surgeon a greater understanding of the joint in the operating room. Utilizing computer-assisted navigation, surgeons can make adjustments within a fraction of a degree to ensure the implant’s stability and range of motion are optimized for the patient. As the surgeon moves the operating instrument within the joint, the navigation system sends information wirelessly to a monitor that gives the surgeon information on the angles, lines and measurements of the joint. The result is a natural feeling joint that mimics the feel and function of real bone.

Schedule an appointment with Dr. Biggs to find out if you are a candidate for total joint replacement utilizing computer-assisted surgery.