Sam Brusco, Associate Editor03.18.24
PolarisAR has achieved the first total knee arthroplasty (TKA) using its Stellar Knee mixed-reality surgical guidance system.
Stellar Knee guides TKA procedures by showing measured and computer data overlaid directly in a 3D environment. The mixed-reality systems acts as a spatial computer, creating continuous data exchange between the surgeon and software to boost surgical decision-making while simplifying OR workflow, according to the company.
The system is designed for precise control over intraoperative variables compared to traditional instruments, navigation systems, and first-generation augmented reality. Through measurement, planning, and guidance, it helps to optimize lower limb alignment, soft tissue balance, joint line maintenance, and positioning of components.
The technology received U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) clearance in November 2023 for TKA procedures.
“STELLAR Knee represents a paradigm shift in the OR, as we aim to offer surgeons robot-like precision and real-time guidance throughout TKA procedures,” said Paul Mikus, CEO of PolarisAR. “STELLAR Knee also fills a crucial gap in hospitals where existing robotic systems may already be in use. By seamlessly integrating into surgical workflows and delivering comparable precision in a mixed reality format, STELLAR Knee ensures that every patient can now access the highest standard of care.”
The company said Stellar Knee’s commercial launch will continue at leading U.S. institutions over the next several weeks.
Stellar Knee guides TKA procedures by showing measured and computer data overlaid directly in a 3D environment. The mixed-reality systems acts as a spatial computer, creating continuous data exchange between the surgeon and software to boost surgical decision-making while simplifying OR workflow, according to the company.
The system is designed for precise control over intraoperative variables compared to traditional instruments, navigation systems, and first-generation augmented reality. Through measurement, planning, and guidance, it helps to optimize lower limb alignment, soft tissue balance, joint line maintenance, and positioning of components.
The technology received U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) clearance in November 2023 for TKA procedures.
“STELLAR Knee represents a paradigm shift in the OR, as we aim to offer surgeons robot-like precision and real-time guidance throughout TKA procedures,” said Paul Mikus, CEO of PolarisAR. “STELLAR Knee also fills a crucial gap in hospitals where existing robotic systems may already be in use. By seamlessly integrating into surgical workflows and delivering comparable precision in a mixed reality format, STELLAR Knee ensures that every patient can now access the highest standard of care.”
The company said Stellar Knee’s commercial launch will continue at leading U.S. institutions over the next several weeks.