Smart Total Knee Replacement
Your level of satisfaction following a total knee replacement can be significantly impacted by the size, shape, and how well the knee implants fit. The reason behind designing the Smart Total Knee Replacement was to provide surgeons with additional options for better aligning the anatomy of your bones.
Introducing the Smart Total Knee Replacement, the inaugural and solitary intelligent knee implant, is a source of pride for us. With the aid of cutting-edge implant technology, you can be assured that you will be in contact with your healthcare team throughout your entire recovery process.
At Complete Orthopedics, we are constantly engaged in innovation and revolutionizing what is attainable for you.
What is the functioning process?
The initial step taken by your surgeon is to choose the Smart Total Knee Replacement that is the most compatible with the structure of your knees. Subsequently, a petite extension called a “smart” stem is affixed to the lower segment of the implant.
The sensors housed in this stem are capable of gathering data such as your range of motion, stride length, walking speed, and number of steps taken. A secure online portal will enable you, our doctors at Complete Orthopedics, and medical care team to access and examine your data.
What is the purpose of gathering data?
By gathering information through Smart Total Knee Replacement, your doctor can remotely monitor your knee’s data during the course of your recuperation. With the utilization of state-of-the-art implant technology, you can rest assured that you will remain connected to your healthcare team at every stage of your recovery process.
Utilizing The Smart Total Knee Replacement Is Also Very Simple And Uncomplicated!
The Smart Total Knee Replacement integrates effortlessly into your everyday routine. You only need to set it up once by following the instructions provided in your welcome kit. Afterward, it will automatically collect data overnight and transmit it directly to your surgeon.
Smart Total Knee Replacement Data Gathers:
- Your knee’s range of motion
- The number of steps you take
- The length of your stride
- The distance covered while walking
- The speed at which you walk
Smart Total Knee Replacement Data does NOT Gathers:
- Your location
What is next?
If you and your surgeon have determined that the Smart Total Knee Replacement is suitable for you, they will enroll you in the program and provide guidance on how to begin.
Included In Your Welcome Kit:
Guides for getting started
Manual for users
Docking station with a USB cable and a wall adapter
Your Privacy Is Important To Us
The protection of privacy is a fundamental human right, and Complete Orthopedics upholds strong practices to guarantee its safeguarding.
Complete Orthopedics will utilize customer and patient data solely to provide the services agreed upon and for objectives that are consistent with offering those services. Complete Orthopedics ensures the security of the data that you entrust to us through robust measures.
Do you have more questions?Ā
How reliable are the sensors in these implants?
The sensors are designed to be highly reliable and are tested extensively to withstand bodily conditions for many years without failure.
What happens if a sensor fails?
Sensor failure does not impact the mechanical function of the implant but would affect the monitoring capability. Options depend on the situation but could range from monitoring with external devices to surgical revision in rare cases.
How long do smart knee implants last?
The lifespan of a smart knee implant is comparable to traditional implants, typically around 15-20 years, depending on patient activity levels and overall health.
Is the surgery to install a smart knee implant different from regular knee replacement surgery?
How much more does a smart knee implant cost compared to a traditional implant?
Smart implants generally cost more due to the advanced technology and sensors involved. The exact cost can vary significantly based on the healthcare system and insurance coverage.
Is recovery time different with smart knee implants?
Recovery might be more efficient with smart implants due to better tailored rehabilitation plans based on real-time data, potentially leading to quicker functional recovery.
Can anyone get a smart knee implant?
While most people requiring a knee replacement could technically receive a smart implant, suitability often depends on individual health profiles, technological literacy, and specific medical needs.
Are smart knee implants covered by insurance?
Coverage varies by insurer and policy. Patients need to check with their insurance provider to understand what is covered under their plan.
What maintenance is required for smart knee implants?
Regular check-ups are necessary to ensure the implant and its electronic components are functioning correctly. Additionally, software updates may be needed for the device that monitors the sensors.
Can the data from a smart knee implant be shared with other devices?
Yes, the data can often be synced with other health monitoring devices or systems, allowing for a comprehensive view of a patient’s health status.
What kind of battery life do the sensors have?
The sensors are typically powered by very long-lasting batteries designed to work for the lifespan of the implant, or they may be powered by kinetic energy from movement.
What happens during a follow-up visit for a smart knee implant?
Follow-up visits may involve checking the surgical site, assessing knee function, downloading and analyzing data from the implant, and adjusting treatment plans if necessary.
How does the smart implant impact long-term knee health?
By providing detailed data on knee function and stress, smart implants can help in making informed decisions that enhance long-term joint health and functionality.
What should a patient do if they experience issues with their smart implant?
Patients should contact their surgeon or healthcare provider immediately if they suspect any issues with their implant, such as unusual pain or changes in data outputs.
Can smart implants detect complications like infections?
Yes, some smart implants are designed to detect changes in temperature or fluid characteristics around the joint, which can be early indicators of infection.
How does the implant communicate data to the external device?
The implant typically uses low-energy wireless technologies like Bluetooth to transmit data securely to an external device such as a smartphone or a specialized receiver.
What is the success rate of smart knee implants?
While specific success rates can vary, preliminary studies and clinical trials suggest that smart knee implants have a high success rate similar to, or potentially better than, traditional implants due to enhanced monitoring capabilities.
How are privacy concerns handled with data from smart knee implants?
Data privacy is a crucial aspect, and manufacturers must comply with healthcare regulations like HIPAA in the U.S., ensuring that data is encrypted and securely handled.
Can a smart knee implant adjust itself automatically in response to data?
Currently, smart knee implants do not adjust themselves automatically; however, the data collected can inform medical professionals who can then adjust treatment or suggest changes to activity levels.
What happens once I register?
Once you have successfully registered, you will be sent a welcome package that comprises a home base station and a quick start guide. The guide will have step-by-step instructions on how to activate your account and establish a connection with the base station. The provided instructions will have contact numbers for the support team, which can be used in case you require any assistance during the set-up process.
What steps do I need to follow to create my account, and what type of information is required during the setup process?
The welcome packet includes guidelines for setting up your account and base station, and it is designed to be completed within a few minutes. The Information required includes:
- Username and password of your choice
- Name, address, phone number, and email address (optional) of the caregiver
- Name, address, and phone number of your primary care physician.
- Name, phone number, and email address (optional) of your emergency contact person
To ensure the security of your personal health information, refrain from sharing your username and password with individuals who are not authorized to access it.
Following the surgery, you can use the username and password you established during the setup process to access your dashboard and keep track of your recovery progress.
What is the estimated time required for setting up the base station, and what are the essential requirements for the setup process?
Your home will serve as the location for the base station. The setup of your base station can take between 10 to 30 minutes, depending on the speed of your Wi-Fi connection. The following is required:
- Login credentials established during the activation of your account, including the username and password.
- The quick start guide, base station, USB cord, and wall plug adapter are provided in your welcome packet.
- A Windows 10 compatible computer or laptop.
- The username and password for your Wi-Fi network.
What is the function of the base station?
The base station is designed to wirelessly communicate with your smart implant and operates as a receiver/transmitter. Every night, theSmart Total Knee ReplacementĀ stem sends your daily activity information to the base station, which then forwards it to your online dashboard. You and your doctor can access this data from the dashboard.
What should I do if I suspect that my device is not functioning correctly, or if I accidentally damage the base station?
You will begin to see information on your patient dashboard three days after the surgery. If you are unable to view your information on the patient dashboard after three days, ensure that the light on the base station is solid green.
If the light on the base station is solid green, wait for 24 hours and then check the patient dashboard again. If the light on the base station is not solid green, disconnect the base station for 5 seconds, then reconnect it. Check your patient dashboard again after waiting for 24 hours.
What kind of information does the Smart Total Knee Replacement stem gather?
- The flexibility of your knee joint
- The number of steps you take
- The length of your steps
- The distance traveled during walking
- Your walking speed average
What is the duration of time for which my data will be utilized?
The medical care team will continue to use your data as long as you choose to share it with them. You have the option to opt-out of data collection at any time if you no longer wish to share your data. Consult with your physician to obtain information on the steps involved in opting out. In addition to the required data elements for implant reporting, once you choose to opt out of data sharing, your past data will be made anonymous.
Who has access to my data?
Your medical care team and authorized administrators at Complete Orthopedics will have access to your data from the Smart Total Knee Replacement. Your patient dashboard is another way for you to access and view your information.
How will I be able to see my data?
The information collected by your Smart Total Knee Replacement will be displayed on your patient dashboard, which can be accessed through our website. You can refer to the patient materials included in the welcome packet for further information.
Can the smart implant monitor my location?
The Smart Total Knee Replacement implant does not function as a GPS tracking device, so it does not track your location.
What happens when I travel?
The Smart Total Knee Replacement implant has the capacity to store data for up to 30 days within the implant, eliminating the need to carry your home base station with you on most trips.
After returning home, the smart implant and base station will transfer the collected information to your surgeon and patient dashboard from the stored data.
If you are traveling for more than 30 days, the smart implant will continue to collect information. Nevertheless, data that is older than 30 days will be overwritten. This implies that you may lose the data collected before the 30-day limit.
If you spend some time away from home during the year, such as having a second summer or winter home, you can take your home base station and accessories with you to your new location.
You can easily set it up again by following the instructions provided in the quick start guide. You can expect your smart implant to transmit data as usual after following the setup steps with your home base station and accessories.
Can I withhold information about the implant from other doctors if I require a different surgery?
It’s recommended to let your doctors know about your medical background.
Can the battery inside the smart stem device hurt me?
Certain medical treatments involve the use of equipment that generates electrical currents within your body. Before any medical procedure, it’s important to let your healthcare provider know about your smart stem implant as certain procedures that involve medical equipment introducing electrical currents into your body may not be safe for you.
Can I change my decision regarding the smart implant before or after the surgery?
A prompt communication of your decision to our office is necessary.
A clinical care plan that does not involve the use of a smart implant will be determined by your surgeon for your surgical procedure.
You will receive instructions on how to return to your home base stations.
In case you wish to discontinue the transmission of your data we can remotely disable the sensor.
Data collected before the shut off date will remain accessible in the system, however, no additional data can be gathered without your explicit consent.
Steps To Resolve Problems
Here are some possible issues that you could encounter with your Smart Total Knee Replacement, along with recommended solutions to help you address them:
Problem
The base station light is not turning on.
Solution
Ensure that the base station is connected to the USB power cord, data cable, and wall plug adapter. Ensure that the base station is properly plugged into the wall outlet. If the outlet is controlled by a light switch, ensure that the switch is turned on.
Problem
I am unable to access my patient account with my login credentials.
Solution
You may want to verify that the username and password you are entering are correct.
Problem
The patient dashboard information is not visible to me.
Solution
After your surgery, it will take 3 days before you start seeing any information on your patient dashboard.
You should verify that the light on your base station is solid green if you do not see your information on the patient dashboard after 3 days.
If the light on your base station is green, please check your patient dashboard again after 24 hours.
Problem
The base station has a solid red light.
Solution
You can try unplugging the base station, waiting for 5 seconds, and then plugging it back in.
Problem
The base station’s light is steady yellow.
Solution
Ensure that your home Wi-Fi signal is working properly to verify that it is functioning. You can verify this by checking the Wi-Fi signal on your smartphone next to the base station in your bedroom. If your phone has a good signal but the base station light is still yellow, please reach out to customer support for troubleshooting assistance.
You may improve your Wi-Fi signal by relocating your modem closer to your bedroom, if it is feasible to do so. This could help to increase the strength of the signal, especially if your current signal is weak. You may attempt to improve the Wi-Fi signal by plugging in the modem at a cable outlet that is closer to your bedroom.
I am fellowship trained in joint replacement surgery, metabolic bone disorders, sports medicine and trauma. I specialize in total hip and knee replacements, and I have personally written most of the content on this page.
You can see my full CV at my profile page.