Minimally Invasive Trauma Instruments

A new computer-assisted navigational system set allows surgeons to perform complex invasive trauma surgeries such as femoral and pelvic fracture fixation through quarter-inch incisions. The system has been cleared by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Using this system, surgeons may be able to reduce surgery duration, radiation exposure, blood loss, and rehabilitation time, while increasing surgical accuracy. The set can be used in about half of all trauma cases worldwide, says Smith & Nephew (Memphis, TN, USA), which developed the system. The company notes that not only does the minimally invasive technique reduce scarring, but in pelvic procedures it may also eliminate the displacing of lower abdominal organs by allowing insertion of the cannulated screw through a small incision in the patient's hip. The instrument set, under the brand name Achieve, is an advanced version of a previous system and features technologic and performance advances.

"Recent results show a 50% reduction in intraoperative radiation exposure when compared to traditional approaches. That presents a compelling case for trauma surgeons to consider computer-assisted techniques,” said Scott Elliot, vice president of computer-assisted surgery at Smith & Nephew.




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