TKR – Knee replacement (arthroplasty)

Description

What is Total Knee Replacement (TKR)?

Total Knee Replacement (TKR) is a surgical procedure designed to relieve pain and/or disability caused by knee arthritis and restore comfortable joint function. In most cases, joint performance can be restored to a level close to that of a healthy knee, and long-term medical treatment is often no longer necessary. Beyond clinical benefits, TKR may help reduce the need for ongoing use of anti-inflammatory medications, which can pose long-term health risks. To determine if TKR is right for your pet, consult your veterinary orthopedic specialist. This surgery can greatly enhance your pet’s quality of life.

Advantages of Custom TKR Implants

High Accuracy
Advanced 3D planning enables precise implant placement and secure bone fixation. Patient-specific surgical guides reduce surgical time and improve the accuracy of component positioning.

Tailored Design
Each prosthesis is designed using a CT scan of the patient, ensuring anatomic and biomechanical compatibility for optimal joint restoration.

Minimally Invasive Surgery
Custom-designed implants allow surgeons to operate with minimal disruption to surrounding tissues, resulting in faster recovery and fewer complications.

Premium Materials
The implants are 3D-printed using medical-grade titanium alloy (Ti6Al4V Grade 23 ELI), known for its exceptional strength and resistance to corrosion. This ensures long-term implant durability and effective osseointegration.

Personalized Treatment
Custom TKR implants provide surgeons with the tools to deliver individualized treatment plans that match each patient’s unique anatomy and clinical requirements, leading to superior outcomes.

Workflow: From Consultation to Recovery

1. Initial Consultation
   Veterinary orthopedic assessment to evaluate joint condition and suitability for replacement.

2. CT Imaging
   A detailed CT scan is performed to capture precise 3D anatomical data for implant design.

3. Implant Development

   • CT segmentation and case-specific analysis

   • Collaboration between the surgeon and biomedical engineer

   • 3D modeling of implant and surgical guides

   • Approval of designs by the attending surgeon

   • Creation of anatomical models, implant prototypes, and surgical guides via polymer 3D printing

   • Final design verification and approval by the surgical team

4. Final Manufacturing

   • Implant produced via 3D printing in Ti6Al4V Grade 23 ELI titanium alloy

   • Surgical guides printed in NextDent SG photopolymer (CE-certified, Class I medical device; retains properties after steam autoclaving)

   • Final quality assurance checks and shipment to the surgical team

5. Surgical Procedure
   The orthopedic surgeon performs the TKR procedure using the patient-specific implant and guides to ensure precision and function.

6. Postoperative Rehabilitation
   Rehabilitation, including physiotherapy, is essential for restoring mobility. Following the veterinarian’s post-op instructions is crucial to ensure a successful recovery.

This state-of-the-art treatment can dramatically improve your pet’s quality of life and help them regain natural mobility and comfort.