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Mobile Orthopedic Surgeon

Customized Knee Implants with 3D Printing TechnologyMobile, AL

Customization continues to enhance a large variety of services from household products to medical supplies. Since no one is exactly the same, certain situations will call for customized solutions to the person’s specific needs. In the case of knee surgery and implants, customization is crucial for treatment, recovery and the chance to continue walking without pain in the knees or hips.

Knee replacement with customized implants using 3D technology can drastically enhance the treatment experience and results. Not only is this procedure more efficient than traditional means, but it is also more effective. To understand knee implants with this new technology, it is also important to understand why knee implants are necessary in the first place.

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    Knee Replacement Procedure

    While there are a variety of conditions or causes that can lead to knee replacement surgery, one of the main causes is osteoarthritis. This condition involves the degeneration of joint cartilage and even the underlying bone in some cases. This condition mainly occurs in middle-aged patients or older. Symptoms can include pain, stiffness and other issues in the knees, hips or thumb joints. This type of arthritis can make simple actions such as walking and sitting painful. Due to this, knee replacement is one of the options to help relieve pain.

    Surgical knee treatment replaces damaged and weakened cartilage with a specialized prosthesis. With a variety of factors in selecting the proper prosthesis, it is important to customize it to the patient’s needs as much as possible. Several factors to consider include:

    • Age
    • Weight
    • Level of physical activity
    • The size and shape of the knee
    • The patient’s overall health

    With 3D printing, we can ensure the implant meets the patient’s specific needs and body. This procedure can help to relieve pain and provide long-term relief instead of regular treatment options. Far too often, people will attempt to deal with the pain by getting rest and taking painkillers. While rest can help, painkillers only mask the pain temporarily.

    This temporary relief will only last if the patient continues to consume the painkillers on a regular basis. Instead of masking symptoms, we can provide a professional solution that is effective. While there will be recovery time, knee replacement using 3D printing may be the option for you.

    3D Printing Technology

    In order to create a custom-fit implant for the knee, we need to ensure the material:

    • Is similar to human cartilage
    • Is strong and sturdy for full functionality
    • Has the necessary elasticity
    • Is shock absorbent

    The first step to creating this type of implant will involve using a 3D scanner and modeling software in order to scan the specific body part and create a digital model the fits the specific space perfectly. The software then helps the printer create the specific component or object of whatever material we load into it. With this process, we can create the component fairly quickly.

    While traditional implants are still effective, they will not be as precise or as customizable of a fit as 3D printed implants. This customization allows patients to receive the necessary treatment they need with less of a chance for issues with the implant down the line. After the component is ready, we will prepare to begin the surgery.

    Depending on the condition of the patient and the nature of the surgery, the patient may or may not be asleep for this procedure. Regardless, the patient will not feel any pain during the surgery. We will make an incision at the kneecap and cut away any damaged joint surfaces. Then, we will place the implant into the joint area.

    Following the Surgery

    Once the surgery is complete, we will help the patient begin the adjustment process. If necessary, we will schedule follow-up appointments. In many cases, the patient will have to stay a few days in a hospital room to ensure that everything goes smoothly. We will also help the patient to understand the various exercises and activities to help promote healing and use of the knee.

    Our main worry will be blood clotting, swelling or infection immediately following the injury. After a few days, the patient will be able to return home and needs to continue the exercises on a regular basis. In the following three to six weeks, the patient will slowly begin to continue adjusting back into a normal routine.

    Call Us Today

    If you or a loved one is a candidate for reconstructive knee surgery with a knee implant, then give us a call today. There is no reason to continue suffering from the pain in your knee. Seek our professional treatment today so that you can continue to live life to the fullest.

    Contact Us

    The practice of Matthew D. Barber, M.D. is located at
    3610 Springhill Memorial Dr N Suite C
    Mobile, AL
    36608
    .

    (251) 410-3600