Gripping Mechanism Minimizes Knee Movement During Surgery

A redesigned knee positioner accommodates the increasing number of obese patients undergoing total knee replacement (TKR).

The Innovative Medical Products (IMP; Plainville, CT, USA) De Mayo D2 Knee Positioner is designed to reduce surgeon fatigue and assist in the stabilization of a patient’s leg during TKR surgery. Features include a spring-loaded lever on the device’s carriage to allow precise control of flexion, extension, tilt and rotation. Standard components include the positioner base, an aluminum boot with distractor block, and a single lever clamp.


The unique single locking lever allows for precise control, and its ease of use saves time. The same lever releases the boot for testing of ligament stability and range of movement (ROM). The positioner is easily set up in the sterile field, on top of the sterile drapes. The locking carriage mechanism can be used with any existing clamping system, with new spring-loaded, fold-down pins to improve ease of use, and a full line of components and accessories. An additional benefit of the new D2 carriage is easy removal and cleaning.

“We constantly listen to what the market is telling us. By responding to customer needs, we continue to produce innovations that aren’t just new for newness sake but are real, practical solutions based on customer feedback,” said Earl Cole, vice president of IMP. “In this way, we remain faithful to the ideals inherent in our original ‘gold standard’ solution produced more than a decade ago.”

Proper axial alignment is of paramount importance for the longevity of the TKR implant, and even minor deviations can lead to early loosening, increased polyethylene wear, and poor function. Misalignment of any of the components in any anatomical plane can cause major complications. For example, inaccurate rotation of either the femoral or tibial component will critically affect patellar tracking and can lead to patellar subluxation or dislocation. For TKR, the knee joint has to be placed in a 70- to 90-degree angle.

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