Pre-Formed Articulation Repairs Infected TKR Joints

By HospiMedica International staff writers
Posted on 21 Nov 2019
An innovative pre-formed knee spacer with attachable modular stems provides a comprehensive solution to the growing clinical challenge of infected total knee replacement (TKR) joints.

The OsteoRemedies (Memphis, TN, USA) REMEDY Stemmed Knee system is a modular stemmed knee spacer system that includes a femoral component, a tibial component, stainless steel reinforced stem extensions, and tibial wedges, all in a range of sizes and lengths. Initial preparation includes removal of prior prosthesis and preparation of the joint space with aggressive debridement and pulse lavage. Using a trial kit, the appropriate size femoral and tibial components are selected, including stem extensions, if necessary.

Image: The REMEDY Stemmed Knee Spacer (Photo courtesy of OsteoRemedies)

The tibial component is then cemented into place, with the surface in contact with the bone and tibial plateau. If the tibial bone defect is excessive and additional height is required, a wedge insert needs to be cemented to the inferior aspect of the tibial component. Cementation of conical tip of the selected stem extension completes fixation of the tibial component, and the same procedure is used to fix the femoral component. To assure correct alignment, flexion/extension movements and medial/lateral stability are checked before cement curing occurs.

“After five years clinical experience with the current knee spacer design, our surgeon design team and users clearly identified the need for additional knee stem extensions for use in more complex two-stage revisions for infection,” said Eric Stookey, COO, of OsteoRemedies. “By incorporating our proprietary premolded and modular approach to the knee stem design, we can offer surgeons the opportunity to improve OR efficiency versus handmade intramedullary dowels.”

Related Links:
OsteoRemedies


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