Rapid advancements in joint replacement technology

Past presidents such as Gerald Ford, Ronald Reagan, and George H.W. Bush are among the millions of Americans who have undergone some form of joint replacement/repair surgery. While we see presidents come and go, advancements in joint replacement technology are up for reelection much more often.

"These days, advances in technology happen in rapid progression.  Think of your cell phone. Within the past decade they have basically become mini-computers, and before you know it, a more advanced version is available," says Coastal Orthopedics Surgeon and Joint Replacement Specialist, Alan Valadie, M.D. "In that same timeframe we've seen continual advances in joint replacement technology.  Not only in the materials and design of the implants, but also the way we perform the surgery has become less invasive, which allows for faster recovery."

As computers continue to become an integral part of our lives, so has their importance in the operation room. With the assistance of computer-guided technology, surgeons use an infrared camera to accurately implant prosthetic joints. "In the past, mechanical instruments and our own judgment were what we relied on during surgery," says Dr. Valadie who has performed nearly 2000 computer-assisted knee replacement procedures. "We now have the ability to improve mobility without the likelihood of needing revision-surgery in the future."

Since the first performed joint replacement surgery in 1960, even the artificial joint has gone through its own set of revisions. From ivory to titanium, as its main components, the artificial joint can now last anywhere between 12 to 15 years or even more.  

The future is now.  As more research is completed, new innovations such as custom joints, and ligament repair from plasma, has given individuals of all ages the ability to regain movement without the need of total joint replacement. The promise of improvement is a sentiment shared not only by our current and past presidents but also by medical science.