Computer-navigated joint surgery aids precise alignment

In knee and hip replacement surgery, doctors credit precise joint position and leg alignment as key factors that can maximize successful outcomes.

With that goal in mind, computer navigation to ensure proper alignment of the joint and leg in joint replacement surgery has been used at Baptist Hospital East since 2005. The intraoperative navigation computer uses GPS-type technology to make three-dimensional digital models of a patient’s bones and leg alignment. This serves as a guide to the surgeon in positioning the instruments, understanding what part of the joint to remove, in making more precise cuts and knowing where to insert the new joint.

Patients benefit in two ways: a well-aligned joint replacement wears more slowly, and in turn, should last longer. Physicians hope this will allow better function and delay the need for future revision surgery, but many factors can influence this.

Nearly all joint replacement patients can benefit from computer-navigated surgery, but patients are advised to discuss their individual case with their surgeon.

For more information or a physician referral, call the Baptist East Information Center at (502) 897-8131 or visit the Physician Directory online.