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and the robot doesn't impact that aspect of care, says Dr. Ball. He views com-
puter-assisted navigation and robotic platforms as simply just another tool sur-
geons can use to place an implant, at least for now. He believes the technology
will reach its full clinical potential in the future when it's paired with smarter
implant technology. That brings us to the third surgeon-endorsed game-changing
development.
3. High-performance hardware
Implant materials have improved significantly in recent years, says Dr. Kayiaros.
"The polyethylene bearings used in hips and knees are manufactured so that the
wear is essentially negligible," he explains. "That's been a huge advancement."
The knee implant Dr. Kayiaros uses is a "high-flex design," so the geometry of
the prosthesis is designed to maximize the joint's post-op range of motion. He
also points out that most manufacturers produce a wide range of implant sizes
that can be tailored to the patient's anatomy during surgery.
Dr. Harwin says cementless total knee replacement systems provide biological
bonds, which produce better stability and rotation, so post-op joint function
more closely resembles the body's natural movements. He also says that
advancements in hip socket prostheses are more evolutionary than revolution-
ary, but notes that dual-mobility designs provide a better range of motion with
added stability in hip replacement patients.
OSM
