News and Events

July 31, 2007

Computer-aided Joint Replacement Technology
Now Offered at Hudson Hospital

Hudson Hospital ’s Orthopaedic Care now offers computer-aided hip and knee joint replacement surgery.

This technology is the most advanced system in joint replacement and is unique in that it provides surgeons with pre-operative, intra-operative and post-operative assessments of the patient's joint kinematics (movement).

"Using the computer navigation system allows more accurate positioning of the components,” said Robert Knowlan, MD, a St. Croix Orthopaedics board-certified orthopaedic surgeon on staff at Hudson Hospital, “and that results in better functioning and longer lasting joint replacements. It creates a better fit, better motion abilities for the patient, and potentially a longer-lasting implant. It also allows us to do total joint replacement surgery through smaller incisions, resulting in less pain and faster recovery.”

The technology provides the surgeon with real time information needed to allow for the most accurate alignment and balance of the hip or knee implant and ligaments, which are very important for stability, durability of the implant and for the most sufficient range of motion.

The system has three components: an infrared camera; a computer; and instruments with infrared light emitting diodes (LEDs). The LEDs are inserted through the surgical incision. The infrared camera senses the LEDs and relays the pertinent mathematical equations back to the computer. Fixed reference markers are then placed on each bone, to provide relative positioning. Information is then stored in a mini-computer inside of the instrument. Once all correct information is available, the orthopaedic surgeon can make precise bone cuts enabling the benefits of stability, durability and range of motion.

"It's a precise and accurate tool which provides us with a comprehensive understanding of the patient's anatomy before any bone cuts are made,” added Patty Schank, manager of the hospital’s Surgery and Procedure Center. “We’re proud to offer the very latest technology to ensure the highest quality along with our intimate and personalized healing environment. High quality, personalized nursing care, comprehensive rehabilitation, longer term transitional care options, intimate hospital amenities – and close to home – make Hudson Hospital a great choice for surgery.”

Hudson Hospital ’s Orthopaedic Care offers diagnosis, treatment and rehabilitation services for general orthopaedic medicine, sports medicine, total joint replacement, upper extremity and hand care, spine care, foot care and more.

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Hudson Hospital is an independent, non-profit community hospital since 1953, and is located just off Interstate I-94 in Hudson, WI. The hospital campus is designed with the latest technology and amenities to support whole health and healing for patients and their families. Twenty-five private hospital rooms feature private bath, garden views, guest accommodations, room service for patients and guests, and spacious room to relax or visit with family, friends and even the family pet. Hudson Hospital recognizes the important role that family and friends can play in health and recovery, and personalizes a plan of care that works best for the patient and their family. Specialty services include inpatient and outpatient care in rehabilitation, emergency care, orthopaedic care, maternity and birth, surgery, cardiology, and treatment, rehabilitation and medical imaging. Hudson Hospital , Hudson Physicians Clinic, Hudson Specialty Clinics and numerous other health care providers are conveniently located in the warm and comfortable environment of Hudson Health Campus.