Offset Reamer Driver

Symmetry Medical Inc. has announced that it has launched the Offset Reamer Driver through its OEM Solutions team. Symmetry’s new Offset Reamer Driver is used in minimally invasive surgical techniques, such as the direct anterior approach, to introduce acetabular reamers to the hip joint. The driver features a drive shaft designed and tested to meet the demands of Total Hip Athroplasty (THA) surgery. The product highlights include:
• Acetabulum access is improved due to the low-profile reamer/driver interface connection
• Features an ergonomic silicone overmolded handle
• Compatible with all of Symmetry’s flagship acetabular reamers and together with the Split-Thread Cup Impactor launched last year further expands the Company’s minimally invasive line of hip arthroplasty instruments

For more information, visit www.symmetrymedical.com.

Technique, patient and implant selection key to avoiding fracture during THA

At the Current Concepts in Joint Replacement 2011 Winter Meeting, Craig J. Della Valle, MD, provided tips on the prevention of intraoperative fractures during total hip arthroplasty.

“Prevention is key,” Della Valle said, noting that appropriate exposure is crucial.

In a study of more than 5,000 hip replacements performed by 11 surgeons during a 10-year period, Della Valle and colleagues found that risk factors for fracture include elderly patients, female patients and type of stem used. He noted that flat-wedge taper designs have a high risk for early postoperative and intraoperative fracture. Developmental dysplasia of the hip was also substantial risk factor.

The decision to use a cemented or uncemented implant is also key.

Computer navigation unnecessary for proper component positioning in THA

Although computer navigation can increase accuracy in total hip arthroplasty (THA), surgeons using conventional instruments can achieve proper component positioning without additional costs and time, according to a presentation at Orthopedics Today Hawaii 2012.

“Ideal component position can be achieved with conventional instruments and a consistent surgical technique, so I see no reason to use computer navigation, at least on a regular basis,” Michael D. Ries, MD, said during his presentation.

Templating and positioning

Proper component positioning, Ries said, starts with patient positioning. He noted that the most important thing is to have the pelvis in a secure position.