Custom Fit Knee Replacement

Custom-fit knee replacement utilizes a 3D computer model of the patient’s individual knee to precisely guide alignment of the implant and ensure a proper fit. Contact Dr. Kruse to learn more »

Since its introduction to the United States more than fifty years ago, knee replacement surgery has evolved in ways that afford for greater precision and accuracy than ever before. Innovative surgical approaches and implant manufacturing techniques have led to implants that take the individual’s unique anatomy into account and potentially provide benefits that exceed those of traditional knee replacements.

Taking customization a step beyond gender-specific knee implants, custom-fit knee replacements using Stryker Orthopaedics’ Custom Fit Knee with ShapeMatch® Technology allows knee surgeons to create a knee implant especially contoured for a patient's anatomy. This added customization leads to improved surgical precision and improved alignment of components, potentially giving patients a more natural feeling knee requiring a shorter recovery.

Knee Replacement Surgery: Traditional Total Knee Replacement

Knee replacement surgery is traditionally performed through the removal of a diseased or damaged knee and replacing it with an orthopedic implant. This implant is meant to imitate the original knee's function and mobility to restore range of motion and alleviate pain.

To perform the surgery, the surgeon makes an incision, approximately 8-12 inches in length, and displaces the kneecap to reveal the knee joint. The surgeon will make cuts to the femur, or thighbone, and the tibia, or shinbone, in order to remove the damaged joint and set the knee implant in place. Once the replacement knee is fitted, the components are fixed in place either by cement or by bony ingrowth.

Post-operative recovery for total knee replacement surgery lasts several weeks, and may include physical therapy and occupational therapy, temporary immobilization of the joint, and tempering the knee's weight bearing with a cane. Full recovery can take up to three months, with some patients noticing gradual improvements beyond this time frame.

Benefits of Custom-Fit Knee Replacement Surgery

Dr. Kruse is an advocate of custom-fit knee replacement technology, which allows the knee surgeon to plan the operation beforehand.

Using an MRI image of the patient's knee, Dr. Kruse can create a 3-dimensional model of the patient’s affected knee. This model is utilized to develop a customized knee implant that better matches the patient's anatomy and allows for the most exact size, fit and alignment of the implant.

Compared to traditional knee implants, custom-fit knee implants potentially require less effort to move and are designed to last longer.

Custom-Fit Knee Replacement in Minneapolis & St. Paul, MN

Dr. Jay Kruse is a Board-certified orthopaedic surgeon serving as the Medical Director of the Unity and Mercy Hospitals in Fridley and Coon Rapids, MN, respectively. Dr. Kruse is trained to use computer-assisted surgery and custom-fit knee replacement technologies, giving his patients more options than ever for safe and effective orthopedic surgery. To learn more about custom-fit knee implants, schedule an appointment with Dr. Kruse at his Fridley or Coon Rapids, MN offices today.