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Clinical
trials have begun on a total knee replacement with a new rotating
tibial polyethylene component.
Research
has demonstrated the importance of longitudinal rotation in
the function and durability of total knee prostheses.
"Our
research indicates that this rotating platform design could
improve both the function and durability of the knee,"
said Dr. Thomas Schmalzried, associate medical director of
the Joint Replacement Institute at Orthopaedic Hospital in
Los Angeles, one of 12 sites nationwide authorized to enroll
qualifying patients in the clinical trial.
In most
knee prostheses, the tibial polyethylene is firmly attached
to a metallic tibial base plate. In a rotating platform design,
the tibial polyethylene is free to rotate about a central
axis.
Data collected from the studies will be used to obtain U.S.
Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval to commercially
distribute the joint in the United States.
The knee
replacement, called The Scorpio Plus®, is manufactured
by Howmedica Osteonics of Allendale, New Jersey.
Source:
Medical Week staff,
week of April 21, 2002
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