A novel technology may be able to tackle joint pain issues from sports injuries, genetic damage and pre-arthritis. This technology has been developed by OrthoDynamix LLC and is called ArthroSteer. Supposedly it considerably improves contact in hip and other arthroscopic procedures.
This platform of disposable instrumentation comprises of four products. These products permit surgeons to exclusively assist arthroscopy by means of a multi-control device. In addition, surgeons need to guide and reach around joint capsule structures while cooperating with the tissue. Apparently, this tissue not only performs the diagnosis but also repairs the joint capsule structures.
“This is the first steerable device designed specifically for arthroscopy that can withstand the rigors of orthopedic surgery and that can deliver enabling technology for the repair of joint capsules. Since these devices greatly improve the access to joint capsules, specifically the hip, more surgeons will offer hip arthroscopy as an alternative for pre-arthritic injuries and congenital abnormalities,” says OrthoDynamix’ CEO Bill Dennis.
Though there seems to be nearly 1.5m arthroscopic knee and shoulder procedures in the US, hip arthroscopy is of latest origin.
Dennis further stated that, “This is a very exciting time since hip arthroscopy is helping people with hip pain stay active longer. Moreover, professional athletes can now even extend their careers. If surgery is done early enough, it can possibly prevent cartilage damage and arthritis.”
With the help of three defined controls on the handle, surgeons were able to control ArthroSteer instruments. It was observed that the opening and closing of the jaw was similar to the conventional surgical instruments. Also, the flexible spine appears to bend by nearly180 degrees and the jaw seems to rotate by about 360 degrees unlike other existing instrument.
Evidently, OrthoDynamix plans to bring their technology platform to spine, general, OB, CV and thoracic surgery.