First outing for 3D imaging system in total knee surgery

3D software specialist Materialise reports that the first total knee surgery to be planned using its x-ray knee guide system has been completed.

The technology allows for the preplanning of knee replacement surgeries as well as the 3D printing of related surgical guides, on the basis of 2D X-ray images.

In the past, similar operations have required the availability of CT or MRI scans of the patient’s knee. However, Materialise says that its total knee replacement surgical planning and guiding tools can turn 2D x-ray images into 3D information — and 2D x-ray images are generally available for all total knee replacement cases.

 “I’m very excited to be part of this development project,” said Dr. Roger Jaeken, the surgeon who performed the operation. “The ability to work from X-ray images will make the surgical preplanning process even more efficient.  This is because, in many instances, patients will no longer have to undergo an often time-consuming CT or MRI scan, lead times will become shorter, and more cases will become eligible for preoperative planning.”  

“At Materialise, we initiated the R&D program that is at the source of our new X-ray based technology shortly after the successful introduction of our CT/MRI based guide technology. The reason for this is our continued drive to stay one step ahead of the industry,” said Fried Vancraen, the company’s CEO.  “We consider the first treatment of a patient with our X-ray technology as an important landmark in this development program.”

The technology will see a limited release in Europe, before initiating the regulatory clearance process in the US.