Issue link: https://viewer.e-digitaledition.com/i/1439655
ORTHOPEDICS' MINI REVOLUTION BY THOMAS CROCKER IT'S A BOOM TIME FOR SMALL ORTHOPEDIC DE VICES. APIFIX SPINAL IMPLANT Developed by it s n a me sa ke company, the ApiFix system is a spine straightening solution for certain patients with adoles- cent idiopathic scoliosis — and an a lternative to bracing and spinal fusion. The unique design of the ApiFix self-adjusting metal rod allows for enhanced range of motion compared with spinal fusion, and implantation is less invasive. NE W ORTHOPEDIC IMPL ANTS AND OTHER MINIATURE DE VICES ARE POISED TO TR ANSFORM ORTHOPEDIC SURGERY. HERE'S A LOOK AT FOUR OF THESE E XCITING SMALL GADGETS. CLEARFIT CRANIAL IMPLANT ClearFit by Longeviti allows surgeons to reconstruct the cranium following brain surger y using impla nts custom-made for each patient. Designed using CT scans of the patient's cranium and produced via 3D printing, ClearFit implants are transpar- ent, permitting observation of underlying anatomy and postop- erative ultrasound imaging while restoring the skull's natural shape. PERSONA IQ SMART KNEE IMPLANT The Persona IQ knee implant by Zimmer Biomet is equipped with a sensor that collects and transmits kinematic data, such as range of motion, stride leng th and cadence, for surgeons and patients to review online in real time. This encourages patients to comply with rehabilitation instructions and enables early identifi cation of problems. SACROFUSE FUSION DEVICE Developed by Sacrix, SacroFuse is a screw-like device for stabilization and fusion of the sacroiliac joint. Inserted via a percutaneous, two-step procedure, SacroFuse features fusion channels designed to enhance the device's integra- tion with surrounding bone. n M D N E W S . C O M /// M D N E W S C E N T R A l N E W Y O R K n 2 0 2 2 2 1